By Priam Nepomuceno
MANILA – The Department of National Defense (DND) on Sunday said the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) is ready to assist in humanitarian and evacuation operations amid the Middle East tension.
“The DND is closely monitoring the situation in the Middle East in coordination with the DFA (Department of Foreign Affairs), DMW (Department of Migrant Workers) and other relevant agencies,” the DND said in a statement.
“At the moment, the conflict is contained within the Middle East and there is no credible direct threat to our territory and Filipino and foreign citizens in the country. We urge vigilance against disinformation and condemn those who unnecessarily rouse panic during these circumstances.”
The DND said the AFP is ready to respond to probable contingencies, including repatriation support and crisis response coordination for Filipinos in affected countries, should conditions warrant further action.
“The protection of our nationals overseas remains a paramount concern, particularly amid rapidly evolving security developments,” it added.
In a separate statement, the AFP urged the public to remain calm, discerning and to rely on official channels for accurate information to avoid unnecessary concern.
“The AFP remains on standby to support the national government’s response should the situation require it. Upon directive, we are prepared to assist in humanitarian missions, evacuation efforts and potential repatriation operations for Filipinos in affected areas. Appropriate contingency measures are in place to ensure timely and coordinated action,” it stressed.
The AFP said “safeguarding our citizens, both overseas and domestically, remains a top priority.”
“The AFP will sustain its readiness posture and continue working closely with partner agencies to ensure a responsive and proportionate approach to any developments,” it added.
The United States and Israel launched a joint attack on Iran early Saturday to remove “threats” posed by the Iranian “regime.” Iran said the strikes are a violation of their sovereignty and launched retaliatory strikes. Middle East countries immediately closed their airspace, affecting thousands of flights.
Iranian state television announced on Sunday that Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei was killed, according to Turkish news agency Anadolu.
Also killed were the daughter, son-in-law and granddaughter of Khamenei, according to Fars News Agency, citing sources close to the leader’s office.
Initial Israeli strikes on Saturday killed and wounded numerous Iran Revolutionary Guard personnel, including key operational staff, ISNA news agency reported. (PNA)
