Israeli embassy in Manila shuts down as its diplomats go on strike

Israel’s embassy in the Philippines on Tuesday joined more than 100 other Israeli diplomatic posts worldwide that have shut down due to a strike among Israeli diplomats, who say their government failed to heed their demand for higher wages and better compensation.

“At this time we are sorry to inform the general public that the embassy of Israel in the Philippines, along with all Israeli embassies worldwide, will be closed until further notice,” an official embassy statement said.

During this time, consular activities and official visits will not take place. Preparation of important agreements by Israel with other nations is suspended as well as cultural activities and aid and development programs.

“This is the first time in the history of Israel that such a situation has occurred,” the embassy said. “The decision to close all embassies was made with a heavy heart by the Foreign Ministry’s employees’ labor union.”

“This drastic step comes as the Ministry of Finance has not seen fit to reach a compromise with the workers’ legitimate demands for a fair wage and reasonable work conditions,” it added.

The embassy said its diplomats had to take such measure “to facilitate the changes that are so much need at our ministry.”

“We hope that with this course of action we can influence others in ensuring that we and our families and our ministry have a more prosperous future,” the statement said. — Michaela del Callar/BM, GMA News