Ambassador says Iran missiles will not reach Kenya amid escalating Middle East tensions

Iranian ambassador to Kenya Ali Gholampour assured Kenyans that Iran’s missile systems cannot reach Kenyan territory, seeking to calm fears amid escalating hostilities in the Middle East involving Iran, the United States and Israel.

Speaking in Nairobi, the envoy described it as “good news” that Iran has deliberately capped the range of its missiles at 2,000 kilometres — a move he said demonstrates Tehran’s defensive and peaceful posture.

“Our missiles will not reach the Kenyan territory. Our government has deliberately, in order to show its intention — a peaceful intention — limited the range of missiles only for defensive purposes,” he said.

The ambassador’s remarks came amid concerns that countries hosting American military facilities could become potential targets in the expanding confrontation.

He stated that Iran considers U.S. military bases used to launch attacks against it as American territory. However, he expressed confidence that Kenya would not allow its land to be used to mount strikes against Iran.

“I do not believe that Kenya will provide such a facility to attack Iran from its land,” he said, emphasizing the longstanding diplomatic ties between Tehran and Nairobi.

Iran and Kenya have maintained cordial relations over the years, with cooperation spanning trade, education, and cultural exchanges.

Beyond security assurances, the envoy acknowledged that a prolonged conflict could trigger global economic disruptions, with ripple effects felt as far as East Africa.

He cited the strategic importance of the Strait of Hormuz — one of the world’s most critical oil transit chokepoints — noting that while Iran is closely monitoring activity in the waterway, it remains open.

The Strait handles a significant portion of global oil shipments, and any disruption could affect fuel prices and trade flows worldwide.

The ambassador emphasized that Tehran has shown restraint and does not intend to interrupt the flow of essential commodities, including energy supplies bound for African markets.

On the welfare of Kenyans residing in Iran, the envoy said only a small number of Kenyan nationals are currently in the country. He added that Iranian authorities, in coordination with embassies and the foreign affairs ministry, are facilitating safe exit arrangements for foreigners wishing to leave through designated corridors.

While reiterating Iran’s right to self-defence under international law, the ambassador maintained that Tehran does not seek further escalation.

“For Kenya,” he stressed, “there is no direct missile threat.”