Metro Manila, Philippines – President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. backed calls for a ceasefire among countries in the Middle East conflict, saying the Philippines hopes for a swift and peaceful resolution to the crisis.

Speaking at a Palace press conference on Tuesday, March 3, Marcos said the Philippines is not in a position to formally call for a ceasefire but wants the violence to end.

“We are not a party to any of this. Of course, we want the fighting to stop. But the Philippines is not going to call for a ceasefire. The only people who can call for a ceasefire are those who are involved,” he said.

“But let me do it now. If it will help, let’s hope that there is a ceasefire, and we, the Philippines, ask all parties to show restraint and to bring this to a close as quickly as possible,” he added.

Marcos said that while the country’s involvement is tangential, the situation remains a concern because of the presence of Filipinos in affected areas.

He also expressed support for countries that have come under attack and called for continued assistance to ensure the safety of Filipinos.

Israel and the US have been carrying out air strikes against Iran since Saturday, triggering Iranian retaliation.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Monday that the US-Israel war with Iran could take “some time” but would not take years.