The Philippine government, through the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), has strongly condemned Israel’s latest offensive in the Gaza Strip, which has claimed the lives of more than 400 Palestinians.
In a statement released on Friday, the DFA expressed grave concern over the escalating violence, citing the tragic deaths of hundreds of Palestinians, including over 100 children, and injuries sustained by more than 500 others.
"We urge all sides to refrain from further escalating the violence and to immediately return to negotiations toward a more permanent ceasefire," the DFA said.
The Philippine government also called on all parties to uphold their obligations under international law, emphasizing the protection of civilians and the unconditional release of all hostages.
According to Gaza health officials, Israeli airstrikes have already killed nearly 600 Palestinians since breaking a two-month truce with Hamas, the Palestinian Sunni-Islamic militant group.
A Reuters report revealed that at least 91 Palestinians were killed and dozens more wounded during Israeli airstrikes on Thursday, as Israel — backed by its powerful ally, the United States — resumed its military operations in the Palestinian enclave.