Kenya has joined other countries in urging its citizens to leave Lebanon due to escalating tensions that could lead to widespread conflict in the Middle East.
The region is currently tense after Iran vowed to avenge the assassination of Ismail Haniyeh, the leader of the Hamas group, by Israel. Kenya’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, through the Department of Diaspora Affairs, has advised its citizens in Lebanon to either leave the country or relocate to safer areas.
The ministry has also encouraged citizens to register for evacuation, expressing “deep concern over the unfolding situation.”
“We are appealing to those who can move to safer areas within Lebanon and those able to leave the country to do so. For Kenyans with family members in Lebanon, kindly call +254114757002 number provided for ease of safety coordination or visit our offices at the Old Mutual Building, Ground floor along Upper Hill Road,” the Ministry stated on Tuesday.
Those seeking evacuation are urged to register by calling +96590906719, +96171175006, or +254114757002, or by filling out an online form provided by the ministry.
Kenyans in Lebanon
Kenya is among the countries that frequently send skilled labor to Lebanon and other Middle Eastern nations.
A 2022 report by the International Labour Organisation (ILO) revealed that in 2021, Lebanon saw an increase in the Kenyan community, with 3,233 new workers moving to the country. In October 2023, an additional 1,500 Kenyans left for jobs in Lebanon as part of a deal between the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI) and various agencies.
The Kenyan Consulate in Beirut reports that the majority of Kenyans seeking jobs in Lebanon are females who primarily take up domestic roles. Other skilled workers move to work as food and dairy technologists, veterinary staff, agricultural officers, tourist consultants, computer experts, technicians, and hotel and restaurant staff.
Middle East Tension
This week, Middle Eastern countries have experienced increased tension due to reports that Iran plans to retaliate against Israel for the killing of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh. On July 31, Haniyeh was killed by a “short-range projectile” fired into his guesthouse in Tehran, according to Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). The projectile, weighing about 7kg (16lbs), caused a “strong blast” that killed Haniyeh and his bodyguard.
The assassination occurred just hours after Haniyeh attended the swearing-in ceremony of Iran’s new president, Massoud Pezeshkian.
Although Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government has not claimed responsibility for the attack, it has raised concerns that the Gaza conflict could escalate into a broader Middle East war.
