Manila: The Philippines and South Korea on Tuesday expressed hope for the early restoration of peace and stability in the Middle East amid the escalating tensions involving the United States (US), Israel, and Iran. Speaking after a bilateral meeting at Malaca±an Palace in Manila, South Korean President Lee Jae Myung said he and President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. are optimistic about the immediate end of hostilities among the concerned parties.

According to Philippines News Agency, President Lee stated, "In today's meeting, President Marcos and I discussed not only the regional but also the international situation, including the Middle East. We hope that peace and stability in the Middle East may be restored at an early date." The US and Israel on February 28 launched coordinated air strikes across multiple Iranian cities, including Tehran, targeting military facilities and sites linked to Iran's nuclear and missile programs. Iran responded with retaliatory attacks on Israel and several Gulf states that host US military assets.

Meanwhile, Lee and Marcos reaffirmed their commitment to address regional security issues, including the South China Sea and the Korean Peninsula. The two leaders underscored the importance of continued collaboration to promote peace and stability in the region. President Marcos emphasized the need for both countries to uphold a rules-based order governed by international law, particularly in the maritime domain.

President Lee expressed gratitude to President Marcos for his active support of South Korea's efforts to resume dialogue for peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula. He added, "I sincerely hope that today's meeting will serve as an opportunity to further deepen friendship and cooperation so that our two countries will continue to grow as key partners for the future."