NAIROBI, Kenya — The Iranian Embassy in Nairobi has dismissed claims that tensions around the Strait of Hormuz will trigger higher fuel prices in Kenya, terming such reports “false” and “propaganda.”
In a statement issued March 27, the embassy rejected narratives suggesting that developments in the Middle East waterway would negatively affect Kenya’s economy, insisting maritime traffic has not been halted.
“In this regard, the Embassy categorically rejects false claims by some parties and biased media propaganda regarding the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. Such allegations are baseless and do not reflect the Islamic Republic of Iran’s actual position,” the statement said.
The embassy added that Iran remains committed to facilitating legitimate maritime commerce while exercising what it described as its inherent right to self-defence under international law.
It further claimed that reports linking the situation to rising living costs in countries such as Kenya were being driven by geopolitical rivals.
“The publication of false news and manipulated narratives concerning the closure of the Strait of Hormuz and its impacts on life expenses in countries like Kenya are products of the US and the Israeli regime’s propaganda machinery and are aimed at distorting public opinion,” the embassy said.
The diplomatic mission maintained that maritime passage through the strategic waterway remains open, although subject to wartime considerations.
“The Islamic Republic of Iran reaffirms that maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz has not been suspended or closed and continues, subject to the measures adopted and the considerations arising from the current wartime situation,” it stated.
The Strait of Hormuz is a critical global shipping route, handling roughly one-fifth of the world’s oil supply. Any disruption typically triggers volatility in global crude prices, which can affect fuel-import-dependent economies such as Kenya.
Iran, however, said it is only implementing measures within the legal framework of the ongoing conflict. “Within the legal framework arising from the armed conflict, such assets shall be dealt with in accordance with the decisions and measures of the competent Iranian authorities,” the embassy added.
The statement comes amid escalating tensions in the Middle East and growing diplomatic pressure. The United States recently commended President William Ruto for publicly condemning Iranian attacks on neighbouring countries following the latest escalation involving Iran, Israel and the US.
Despite the geopolitical tensions, the Iranian Embassy insisted there is no immediate cause for alarm in Kenya, urging the public to disregard what it termed misleading narratives about economic hardship stemming from the Strait of Hormuz situation.
