“Iran expects nations to stand on the right side of history”- Kenya Caught in Gulf Tensions

Kenya has found itself in the crossfire of rising Gulf tensions after Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Korir Sing’Oei expressed concern over attacks by Iran on the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

On April 1, Sing’Oei spoke with Abdulla Balalaa, UAE Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs for Energy and Sustainability. He assured the UAE of Kenya’s support and solidarity, aligned with President William Ruto’s position. “I conveyed to him Kenya’s solidarity… and assured him of our readiness to work with the UAE to respond through diplomatic means,” he said.

The Iranian Embassy in Nairobi swiftly responded. It rejected claims that Iran is the aggressor. Tehran said its strikes were defensive, aimed at countering US and Israeli attacks. The embassy emphasized that its actions follow international law, citing the principles of proportionality, necessity, and self-defense. “Our response has been strictly in exercise of our inherent right to self‑defense,” the embassy said.

Iran also defended restrictions in the Strait of Hormuz, stating that non-belligerent countries can pass safely. “Vessels belonging to non‑belligerent countries may conduct innocent passage in coordination with Iran,” the statement added. The embassy warned against siding with aggressors, urging nations to “stand on the right side of history.”

The escalating conflict comes as the US and Israel continue military operations targeting Iran, with President Donald Trump recently threatening drastic action if Tehran does not reopen the Strait of Hormuz.

Kenya, meanwhile, has emphasized diplomacy. President Ruto called for multilateral engagement to de-escalate tensions, stating, “At this defining and perilous moment in global history, longstanding multilateral institutions remain indispensable frameworks for the resolution of the current crisis.”

Analysts note that Kenya’s strategic voice in global diplomacy may be tested. The government must balance international law, regional stability and relations with key Gulf nations while maintaining neutrality in the growing conflict.

As tensions rise, Kenya’s calls for calm and dialogue may become increasingly crucial. Both Sing’Oei and Ruto have stressed that diplomatic engagement is the preferred route to prevent escalation.