President William Ruto (Image | COURTESY)
The Kenyan government has issued an urgent advisory to its citizens living in or travelling through the Middle East following a sharp escalation of hostilities involving Israel, the United States and Iran.
In a statement released on Sunday, the Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs said the advisory follows reported attacks by Israeli and US forces on Iran and retaliatory strikes by Iran targeting Israel and US military bases in parts of the Gulf region.
The ministry warned that the worsening security situation could put Kenyan nationals at risk in several countries, including Iran, Israel, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Jordan and Iraq.
“Following attacks by Israeli and U.S. forces on Iran Saturday morning and subsequent retaliatory attacks by Iran on Israel and U.S. bases in some Gulf states, the Ministry wishes to advise Kenyans residing or traveling through the Middle East to take precautionary measures to ensure their safety,” the statement said.
Kenyans in the affected countries have been urged to exercise extreme caution and avoid unnecessary travel, especially near military installations and crowded public areas that could become potential targets.
The ministry also advised citizens to follow instructions issued by local security authorities, remain alert and monitor official communication from host governments on safety and travel updates.
In addition, Kenyans have been warned to expect possible flight cancellations and airspace disruptions as several countries review their security measures in response to the conflict.
Those who have not registered with the nearest Kenyan embassy or consulate have been asked to do so immediately to allow for quick updates and emergency assistance if needed.
Foreign and Diaspora Affairs Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi said the government is closely monitoring the situation and remains in contact with Kenya’s diplomatic missions in the region.
“We will continue to provide further updates and guidance through official platforms as the situation evolves,” he said.
Thousands of Kenyans live and work across the Middle East, particularly in Gulf countries, making the region one of Kenya’s largest diaspora hubs. The government said protecting their safety remains a top priority as tensions continue to rise.
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