Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, October 8) – The Philippines on Sunday condemned the surprise attack by Palestinian Islamist militant movement Hamas on Israel which has left hundreds dead on both sides.
“The Philippines conveys its deepest sympathies and condolences to those who have lost family members and loved ones in recent attacks. The Philippines condemns the attacks, especially against civilian populations,” the Office of the President said.
“The Philippines understands the right of states to self-defense in the light of external aggression as recognized in the United Nations Charter,” it added.
The Saturday attack which took place during Simchat Torah, a peaceful celebration of the Jewish people, has left 300 dead and thousands wounded in Israel, CNN’s live coverage said, citing the country’s officials.
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In retaliation for Hamas’ attack, Israel launched air strikes on the Gaza Strip, a Palestinian territory bordering the eastern and northern parts of Israel.
According to the Palestine’s Health Ministry, 232 have been reported dead while over 1,600 were wounded in the exclave.
No Filipinos have been reported dead or hurt in the fighting, but the government is trying to verify unconfirmed reports from news aggregators claiming that Pinoys were among those killed or kidnapped by the Islamist militants.
Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo on Sunday said his department was monitoring the situation and welfare of Filipinos in the region.
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The Department of Foreign Affairs is monitoring the situation of Filipinos in the Middle East. The Philippines will continue to look after the welfare of Filipinos who are affected by the current situation @DFAPHL
— Enrique A. Manalo 🇵🇭 (@SecManalo) October 8, 2023
