Kenya condemns attacks on Saudi Arabia, calls for end to hostilities

Nairobi, Kenya – On September 18, the Kenyan government issued a strong condemnation of the growing missile and drone attacks against Saudi Arabia, warning such strikes endanger regional stability and global security. The Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs emphasized that assaults on civilians, civilian infrastructure, and religious sites contravene international humanitarian law. The government called for an immediate end to hostilities and urged all parties to display restraint and aim for de-escalation.

The escalation in fighting between Saudi Arabia and Yemen’s Houthi movement has resulted in recent attacks targeting Saudi cities and energy infrastructure, while Saudi forces have escalated strikes against Houthi positions in Yemen. Saudi authorities reported an attempted drone attack near Mecca, but Houthis denied targeting the holy city. A drone intercepted in Taif province reportedly killed one person and injured two others.

Kenya also expressed concern over heightened threats to maritime trade in the Red Sea and the Strait of Hormuz, warning that disruptions to freedom of navigation could lead to wider consequences for global economic stability and energy security. The government supported full compliance with international law and UN Security Council resolutions concerning Yemen and the Houthis, including obligations related to arms embargoes.

Shipping data from Reuters indicated a significant drop in vessel traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, with only four commodity vessels passing through on Thursday, compared to an average of 16 over the past 10 days. The Red Sea has also faced renewed pressure due to Houthi advances along Yemen’s coast, raising concerns over one of the world's crucial maritime routes. Kenya reiterated its support for a Yemeni-led and Yemeni-owned political settlement under United Nations supervision as the long-term solution to peace.

Kenya affirmed its commitment to Yemen’s unity, sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity, stressing that state sovereignty and territorial integrity are protected under the UN Charter. The Kenyan government expressed solidarity with Saudi Arabia in safeguarding its people, the Two Holy Mosques, and pilgrims traveling there, noting that Kenyan citizens are among those visiting Saudi Arabia as pilgrims and living or working in the Kingdom.

Nairobi emphasized the safety and welfare of Kenyan nationals in Saudi Arabia amid the escalating security situation and pledged ongoing cooperation with the international community to maintain maritime security, protect legitimate trade, and promote international peace and stability.