MANILA — Israel will fully cover hospitalization costs for Filipinos injured in recent Iranian air raids, Israeli Ambassador to the Philippines Ilan Fluss announced Tuesday, underscoring the country’s commitment to supporting all victims within its borders.
According to the Philippine Embassy in Israel, no Filipinos were killed in the attacks, but seven were injured, including one in critical condition. Fluss emphasized that the injured Filipinos will receive the same financial assistance and medical support as Israeli citizens.
“All of them are in Israel and will get the support and compensation or whatever mechanisms we have, like any other Israeli,” Fluss said in an interview. “There is no doubt that the Israeli government is committed to whoever is in Israel, to support them, the same as we did before.”
The latest wave of Iranian strikes has claimed 24 lives in Israel and left dozens more injured, according to Israeli authorities.
An update from the Philippine Embassy on Tuesday night detailed the condition of the injured Filipinos. A critically injured Filipino caregiver, currently in the intensive care unit at Shamir Medical Center—one of Israel’s most advanced hospitals—is scheduled for major surgery. Another Filipino remains hospitalized at Kaplan Medical Center with moderate-to-serious injuries, while five others have been discharged after treatment for minor injuries.
The attacks also displaced 49 Filipinos, including a newborn infant born on June 10, whose homes were destroyed by missile strikes. These individuals are now in temporary accommodations provided by Israeli authorities.
The Philippine Embassy reported that 150 Filipinos initially requested repatriation, but only 26 have confirmed their intent to return to the Philippines, with their cases now being processed. Additionally, 63 Filipinos have received assistance, including temporary shelter, food, clothing, and hygiene products.
“Since the outbreak of hostilities, all Embassy personnel have been staying at the Embassy 24/7 to respond to the needs of our affected kababayan,” the Embassy said in a statement.
The Israeli government’s pledge to cover medical expenses and provide support reflects its broader policy of aiding all residents affected by the conflict, regardless of nationality. For the Filipino community in Israel, this assistance offers a lifeline as they navigate the aftermath of the attacks.