Govt issues safety advisory for Kenyans in Middle East as US–Iran conflict escalate

The government has issued an urgent advisory for Kenyans living in Israel and Iran amid the worsening insecurity crisis in the Gulf, with thousands of citizens in the region caught in the crossfire.

The warning comes as United States-Iran military tensions hit a dangerous new peak following the collapse of nuclear diplomatic talks.

Israel struck Iran on 13 June 2025, targeting nuclear and military sites. More than 300 munitions were deployed and several senior Iranian commanders were killed in the strikes. Iran responded with force, launching missiles that hit Israeli cities within days. The region has not been this volatile in years.

In a statement posted on X, Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Abraham Korir Sing’Oei said the Kenyan mission is closely monitoring developments.

“The Embassy of Kenya in Doha is closely monitoring recent developments in Qatar and the wider Middle East and remains in contact with Qatari authorities. We urge the Kenyan community to remain calm, follow official guidance, and rely on verified government platforms for updates,” he said.

Advisory to Kenyans in Israel and Iran

The advisory outlines five key instructions for Kenyans in the affected countries.

They have been urged to avoid all non-essential movement, monitor local news at all times and comply with directives from local authorities. Citizens are also advised to keep their travel documents and emergency supplies within reach and register immediately with the nearest Kenyan embassy.

Kenya diplomats have also been affected by the escalating conflict.

A missile struck Ramat Gan in Tel Aviv, landing near the Kenyan mission. Ambassador Albert Kendagor directed staff to work from home as a precaution. All personnel were confirmed safe.

In Tehran, a missile struck close to the Kenyan embassy compound. Sing’Oei confirmed that staff had been evacuated.

“Our team in Tehran has relocated to the border with Turkey,” he told reporters.

The embassy is located in District 3 of the Iranian capital, an area Israel had earlier warned civilians to vacate. Kenyan officials confirmed the building was not damaged.

State Department for Diaspora Affairs Principal Secretary Roseline Njogu said evacuation logistics are now active. She urged unregistered Kenyans to sign up with the missions in Tel Aviv or Tehran.

“All well and accounted for. We continue to ask those not registered to register as soon as possible with the embassy. Evacuation plans being operationalised,” she said.

Kenya previously allocated KSh100 million to evacuate diaspora members during the 2024 Israel-Lebanon conflict. Nairobi may consider similar measures if the current crisis escalates further.

Other countries have also moved to protect their nationals.

China evacuated more than 700 citizens. The Czech Republic and Slovakia jointly flew out 181 people on government aircraft. Germany, Poland and Greece have carried out repatriation operations.

The United States temporarily closed its Jerusalem embassy and issued a worldwide caution alert, warning of possible anti-American unrest in different countries. Iran has warned of irreparable consequences if the United States intervenes militarily.

Ethiopian Airlines has suspended all Tel Aviv flights, narrowing exit options for Kenyans seeking to leave voluntarily.