MANILA – The Philippine government has urged the United States and Iran to exercise restraint and resume diplomatic negotiations after the collapse of their ceasefire reignited tensions in the Gulf region, warning that the renewed hostilities could derail efforts to secure a lasting peace.
In a statement, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) expressed concern over the latest developments, emphasizing the need for dialogue instead of further military confrontation.
“The Philippines is deeply concerned about the recent developments that have taken place between the US and Iran which threaten efforts towards a final peace agreement,” Foreign Affairs spokesperson Analyn Ratonel said.
“We call upon parties to exercise restraint and to return to the path of diplomacy to achieve a peaceful and lasting solution to the conflict,” she added.
The DFA also reported that, as of the weekend, no Filipino casualties had been recorded amid the renewed hostilities in the Gulf region and the Strait of Hormuz, a vital global shipping route.
The statement was issued after US President Donald Trump announced that the ceasefire between the United States and Iran had ended, although he said both sides had agreed to continue negotiations.
The renewed tensions follow recent US strikes on more than 80 Iranian targets near the Strait of Hormuz after Washington accused Iran of carrying out what it described as “unwarranted, dangerous” attacks on three commercial vessels transiting the strategic waterway.
As the conflict threatens regional stability and global maritime security, the Philippine government reiterated its appeal for restraint and peaceful dialogue, stressing that diplomacy remains the best path toward a durable resolution./PN
