Doha: The Philippine government on Wednesday expressed strong disapproval of the recent Israeli military strike in Doha, Qatar, which aimed at senior Hamas leaders but resulted in the death of a Qatari security official. The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) of the Philippines labeled the attack as a significant breach of international law, emphasizing the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity as outlined in the United Nations Charter.
According to Philippines News Agency, the DFA has called for an "immediate and permanent ceasefire" between the conflicting parties in Gaza. It stressed the necessity for all involved states to adhere to international humanitarian law, protect civilians, and work towards achieving a "just, lasting, and comprehensive peace in the Middle East."
The DFA has assured that the more than 220,000 Filipinos residing in Qatar were not directly impacted by the strike. The Philippine Embassy in Doha continues to closely monitor the situation and has advised the Filipino community to stay calm and adhere to official guidance.
Dr. Henelito Sevilla, an international relations expert and president of the Philippines-Middle East Studies Association, noted that Manila's denouncement of the strike is consistent with its stance on upholding international law. He stated during the Manila Strategy Forum by the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) that the attack was a violation of national sovereignty, which international law does not condone. Thus, it is expected for the Philippine government to condemn such actions.
The attack reportedly resulted in the deaths of five Hamas members. Local reports, quoting Hamas, indicated that the group's negotiating team was in Doha discussing a ceasefire proposal from the United States when the strikes occurred. The Israel Defense Forces claimed responsibility, asserting that the attack was a "precise strike" against Hamas leaders and that efforts were made to minimize civilian harm through the use of precise munitions and enhanced intelligence.
