The seventeen government officials from the Philippines are stranded in Israel as Iran's missile attacks continue. They arrived in Israel from June 7 to 9 for an official training and work visit, and were scheduled to return to the country on June 20. But Israel closed its airspace after the attack on Iran's nuclear sites on June 13.
According to Irit Savion of MASHAV, Israel's agency for international development, the Filipino officials are safe and in a hotel in central Israel, with 24/7 support. They are now planning their return home via travel to Jordan, where they will board a plane back to the Philippines.
Among those stranded are several mayors from Leyte and other local officials. According to the DFA, they are in good condition. Israel is covering all expenses — from hotel, food, and return flights. Despite the chaos, some lectures are still going on to make the most of their stay there.
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