PH deplores Israeli airstrike on Qatar targeting Hamas leaders

Metro Manila, Philippines - The Philippines said it deplored the attack in Doha, Qatar, and highlighted the need for an immediate and permanent ceasefire in the Gaza conflict.

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) referred to the airstrike carried out by Israel on Qatar on Tuesday, Sept. 9, which attempted to kill the political leaders of the militant group Hamas.

According to Reuters, Hamas said five of its members had been killed in the attack, including the son of the group’s exiled Gaza chief and top negotiator Khalil al-Hayya.

It said Israel had failed in what Hamas called an attempt to assassinate the group’s ceasefire negotiation team.

“The Philippines deplores the attack in Doha which is a grave violation of international law, particularly the fundamental principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity enshrined in the United Nations Charter,” the DFA said in its statement on Wednesday.

“The Philippines highlights the need for parties to the conflict in Gaza to agree to an immediate and permanent ceasefire, uphold their obligations under international humanitarian law, ensure the protection of civilians, and work towards a just, lasting, and comprehensive peace in the Middle East,” the agency said.

US President Donald Trump even said he was “very unhappy about every aspect” of the Israeli strike on Qatar, which is a close US ally and a key mediator in the ceasefire talks.

READ: Israel attacks Hamas leaders in Qatar, Trump says he's 'very unhappy' about strike

The DFA said there are no reports of Filipino casualties in the attack.

The agency said the Philippine embassy in Doha continues to monitor the situation there, advising Filipinos to remain calm and follow official advisories.