File image of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs Principal Secretary Roseline Njogu. PHOT| COURTESY

Kenya Begins Evacuating Citizens from Lebanon Amid Rising Regional Tensions

Kenya has initiated evacuation measures for its citizens in Lebanon in response to escalating regional tensions.

The situation in the Middle East has deteriorated following Iran’s vow of retaliation against Israel for the assassination of Ismail Haniyeh, the leader of Hamas.

The Kenyan Ministry of Foreign Affairs, through its Department of Diaspora Affairs, has advised its nationals in Lebanon to either move to safer locations within the country or leave altogether.

The ministry has urged those needing evacuation to register through designated contact numbers or an online form.

The Kenyan presence in Lebanon is significant, with a substantial number of Kenyans working in various sectors including domestic work, food technology, veterinary services, agriculture, tourism, IT, and hospitality.

A 2022 International Labour Organisation report highlighted a rise in Kenyan workers in Lebanon, with more recent figures showing additional migration for employment.

The heightened tensions in the region stem from Iran’s announcement of revenge plans following the assassination of Hamas leader Haniyeh on July 31.

The attack, carried out using a projectile, has intensified fears of a broader conflict, with the Gaza conflict potentially escalating into a larger Middle Eastern war.

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