DFA eases Iran alert level as tensions cool down

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has lowered the crisis alert level in Iran from Level 3 (voluntary repatriation) to Level 2 (restriction phase) following what it called “positive developments” in the country’s security landscape.

The downgrade takes effect immediately, weeks after Israeli airstrikes targeted Iranian nuclear sites, sparking tensions in the region.

Despite the alert level adjustment, the DFA assured that voluntary repatriation efforts will continue.

“The Philippine Embassy in Tehran will remain committed to assisting Filipinos who wish to return home,” the DFA said in a statement Friday.

The DFA said it will continue monitoring the security situation and adjust alert levels accordingly if conditions change.

Iran was previously under Alert Level 1 until the DFA raised it to Level 3 on June 20, amid the height of Operation Rising Lion — Israel’s military campaign against Iran’s nuclear facilities.

There are about 1,180 Filipinos in Iran, most of whom are married to Iranian nationals. Earlier this month, the DFA welcomed two groups of evacuees repatriated through Turkmenistan, including 11 overseas Filipinos and two OFWs, who were assisted by the DFA’s Rapid Response Team.