The Department of National Defense (DND) said it is ready to conduct evacuation and humanitarian operations for Filipinos in the Middle East amid escalating tensions following US and Israeli strikes on Iran that reportedly killed Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
Iran has retaliated with missile and drone attacks against US and Israeli targets across the Gulf, prompting the DND to coordinate closely with the DFA, Department of Migrant Workers, and other agencies.
DND spokesperson Asst. Sec. Arsenio Andolong emphasized that the conflict poses no direct threat to the Philippines, but the safety of overseas Filipinos remains a top priority.
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) assured the public that national security at home remains stable while preparing to assist in repatriation or crisis response if needed.
Thousands of Filipinos reside and work across the Middle East, including in Israel, Iran, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, and Kuwait, making contingency planning essential for their protection.
Source: PhilNews24 | March 2, 2026
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