Embassy wants to suspend all travel from PH to Israel

Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, October 9) — The Philippine embassy in Tel Aviv said it is strongly recommending the indefinite suspension of all travel to Israel amid the ongoing conflict there.

The embassy cited the volatile security situation in the Middle Eastern country and that trips should be postponed indefinitely “or until such time that the situation has stabilized.”

Israel’s main international gateway, Ben Gurion International Airport, currently remains open and travel between the Philippines and Israel continues.

“Those with confirmed flights, however, are advised to check with their travel agency for possible flight cancellations,” the embassy said in an advisory on Sunday.

Israel has formally declared war on Palestinian militant group Hamas after the latter launched an unprecedented attack over the weekend. This came after months of surging violence between the two sides.

The death toll has surged to at least 1,100 — with at least 700 Israelis and 400 Palestinians killed — based on figures from authorities. Thousands were wounded from both sides, while Hamas claims to hold over 100 Israeli hostages.

The Philippine embassy saidtwo Filipinos were among those injured, but it added the tally could be higher.

Consul General and Deputy Chief of Mission Anthony Mandap said authorities are verifying reports that Filipinos were among those being held hostage by Hamas.