CONFLICT IN THE MIDDLE EAST

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has downgraded its alert level in Israel from Level 3 (voluntary repatriation) to Level 2 (restriction phase), effective immediately. This decision, announced in a Facebook post on Monday night, June 30, follows positive developments in Israel’s security situation.

Under Alert Level 2, Filipinos in Israel are urged to restrict non-essential movements, avoid public places, and prepare for potential evacuation, while maintaining contact with the nearest Philippine Embassy or Consulate. The DFA stated it will continue to “closely monitor the situation in the region and will update the Alert Levels, as necessary.”

This downgrade allows Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) who have returned to the Philippines and possess valid Overseas Employment Certificates (OEC) and re-entry visas to travel back to Israel. However, pilgrims, tourists, newly-hired workers, and other non-essential travels remain prohibited. The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) estimates approximately 30,000 OFWs are in Israel, primarily working as caregivers and in the hotel sector.

The improved security situation comes after US President Donald Trump announced a ceasefire deal between Israel and Iran last week. Israel subsequently declared a “historic victory” following its 12-day military action, dubbed Operation Rising Lion (June 13-24), which reportedly targeted several Iranian nuclear sites. The Israel Defense Forces Home Front Command has since lifted all restrictions on schools, public gatherings, and and workplaces.

Despite the de-escalation, the Philippine Embassy in Israel reported on June 29 that eight Filipinos were injured in Iran’s missile attacks on Israel, with one remaining in critical condition. Additionally, about 149 Filipinos were displaced due to lost homes, with 131 transferred to temporary housing and DMW shelters, and 18 being processed for resettlement.

Since Alert Level 3 was raised, 26 OFWs had signed up for voluntary repatriation, with a second batch of 20 Filipinos expected to arrive soon from Tel Aviv. Earlier repatriations included 100 Filipino pilgrims and students, with another 75 confirmed for the next batch. The embassy has also provided various forms of assistance, including emergency financial aid, temporary shelter, relief packages, and psychosocial support to 567 Filipinos.