Kenya Begins Evacuating Citizens from Lebanon Amid Rising Middle East Tensions
Kenya has urged its citizens to leave Lebanon due to escalating tensions and fears of conflict in the Middle East.
Tensions in the Middle East have surged after Iran vowed to retaliate against Israel for the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh.
Kenya’s Foreign Affairs ministry, through the Department of Diaspora Affairs, has advised its citizens in Lebanon to evacuate or relocate to safer areas.
The ministry emphasizes the importance of registering for evacuation, citing deep concerns over the unfolding situation.
“We urge those who can move to safer areas within Lebanon to do so, and those able to leave the country to proceed. Families with relatives in Lebanon should contact +254114757002 for safety coordination or visit our office at the Old Mutual Building, Ground floor, Upper Hill Road,” the Ministry stated on Tuesday.
Kenyans needing evacuation should register via +96590906719, +96171175006, or +254114757002, or by filling out an online form provided by the ministry.
Kenya is among the countries that send a significant number of skilled workers to Lebanon and other Middle Eastern nations.
According to a 2022 International Labour Organisation (ILO) report, Lebanon saw an increase in Kenyan workers in 2021, with 3233 new arrivals.
In October 2023, another 1,500 Kenyans went to Lebanon for jobs through a deal between the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI) and various agencies.
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The Kenyan Consulate in Beirut reports that most job seekers in Lebanon are females working in domestic roles.
Other skilled Kenyan workers in Lebanon include Food/Dairy Technologists, Veterinary staff, Agricultural officers, Tourist consultants, Computer experts, Technicians, and Hotel and restaurant staff.
The Middle East is on edge this week with reports of Iran planning revenge on Israel for the assassination of Hamas leader Haniyeh.
On July 31, Haniyeh was killed by a “short-range projectile” outside his guesthouse in Tehran, according to Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). The 7kg (16lbs) projectile caused a strong blast, killing Haniyeh and his bodyguard.
The assassination occurred just hours after Haniyeh attended the swearing-in ceremony for Iran’s new president, Massoud Pezeshkian.
Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has not claimed responsibility for the attack, which has raised concerns about the Gaza conflict escalating into a wider Middle East war.
Kenya Begins Evacuating Citizens from Lebanon Amid Rising Middle East Tensions
