President William Ruto has strongly criticised missile attacks targeting American military installations in the Gulf region, warning that the widening Middle East conflict poses a serious danger to global peace and security. The President’s remarks follow a wave of retaliatory strikes by Iran, after the United States and Israel carried out attacks over the weekend. The strikes affected several Gulf and Middle East countries, including the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Oman, Kuwait, Jordan and Bahrain.
Ruto Calls for Dialogue and De-escalation
In a statement issued on Monday, President Ruto cautioned that the regional spread of the conflict could undermine international stability. He urged global leaders to prioritise diplomatic engagement and peaceful dialogue to prevent further escalation.
At this critical and dangerous moment in world history, multilateral institutions remain essential platforms for resolving the ongoing crisis in the Middle East
President RutoCivilian Casualties Reported
Authorities in the United Arab Emirates confirmed that two people were killed in Abu Dhabi, including a Pakistani civilian. The UAE’s defence ministry said more than 130 missiles and over 200 drones were launched toward its territory on Saturday. Residents in Dubai reported hearing loud explosions and witnessing missiles crossing the night sky, with smoke later seen rising near the Palm Jumeirah area. At least four people were injured. Qatar’s defence ministry said its air defence systems intercepted several incoming missiles aimed at the country.
Iraq Base Hit, Hormuz Tensions Rise
In Iraq, airstrikes on a military base hosting the Iran-aligned group Kataeb Hezbollah reportedly killed two people. The group later warned of retaliation against US interests. Meanwhile, Iran’s Revolutionary Guards announced plans to close the Strait of Hormuz, a key global shipping route for oil and gas, raising fears of severe economic disruption.
UN Raises Alarm Over Global Impact
The United Nations Security Council convened an emergency session to discuss the violence, during which Iran’s ambassador accused the US and Israel of potential war crimes. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres warned that continued military action could trigger uncontrollable consequences.
The Middle East is at risk of a chain reaction that no one can stop
Antonio GuterresFlights Disrupted, Kenya Issues Advisory
The conflict has triggered widespread air travel disruption, with thousands of flights delayed or cancelled, the largest aviation disturbance since the Covid-19 pandemic. Several countries, including Iran, Iraq, Israel, Syria, Kuwait, and the UAE, announced partial airspace closures. Kenya’s national carrier, Kenya Airways, has suspended flights to Dubai and Sharjah until further notice. Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi also issued a travel and safety advisory to Kenyans living in or transiting through the Middle East. He urged citizens to exercise extreme caution, avoid non-essential travel, especially near military installations and crowded areas, and adhere to guidance from local security authorities.
