NAIROBI, Kenya — The Kenyan government has expressed deep concern over the escalating conflict in the Middle East, saying it is closely monitoring the safety of more than 500,000 Kenyans living and working across the region.
In a statement on Friday, Prime Cabinet Secretary and Foreign Affairs Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi said no Kenyan nationals had been reported injured or killed seven days after the joint military strikes by Israel and the United States on Iran.
Mudavadi said the government continues to track developments closely through diplomatic missions and emergency communication channels.
“The safety and welfare of Kenyan nationals remains our top priority,” Mudavadi said. “Most of our nationals continue with their daily activities, whether for work, study, or personal matters, depending on the local situation.”
The government advised Kenyans who wish to leave the region to make travel arrangements through licensed airlines or authorised travel agents, where it is safe to do so.
According to the Foreign Affairs ministry, Kenya Airways has begun using safe air corridors negotiated with local authorities to help repatriate Kenyan citizens who may be stranded due to the conflict.
The ministry also acknowledged the potential economic impact of the crisis, particularly for Kenyan exporters who rely on Middle Eastern markets.
“The Ministry is working closely with relevant stakeholders to minimise disruptions and support trade,” Mudavadi said.
Kenya has also reiterated its longstanding diplomatic position calling for a peaceful resolution to the crisis.
“Kenya supports efforts seeking a pause in hostilities and remains ready to provide support to any credible initiative aimed at resolving the conflict through dialogue,” Mudavadi added.
The situation in the region remains volatile. Seven days into the confrontation, tensions have expanded beyond Iran, with security concerns spreading across the Gulf, Lebanon, and Iraq.
Iran has threatened international shipping routes through the strategically critical Strait of Hormuz, a key global energy corridor through which a significant share of the world’s oil supply passes.
Meanwhile, military activity has intensified across multiple fronts in the Middle East, raising fears of a broader regional conflict with global economic implications.
Kenya has urged all parties to exercise restraint and return to diplomatic negotiations to prevent further escalation.
