In a statement addressing the intensifying Middle East crisis, Ruto said Kenya strongly denounces attacks affecting the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Oman, Kuwait, Jordan and Bahrain. The strikes follow heightened regional tensions after Iran targeted locations in countries hosting United States military bases, framing the action as retaliation linked to broader hostilities in the region.

Ruto described the development as a dangerous widening of an already volatile conflict. He cautioned that the spread of military confrontation beyond traditional flashpoints increases the likelihood of prolonged instability with global repercussions.

"At this defining and perilous moment in global history, longstanding multilateral institutions remain indispensable frameworks for resolving the current crisis,” the Kenyan leader said, emphasizing diplomacy over escalation.

Kenya called for urgent, coordinated engagement involving regional governments, global powers and international bodies to facilitate de-escalation. Nairobi has consistently advocated dialogue, adherence to international law and structured multilateral responses to armed conflict.

Security analysts note that instability across the Gulf carries significant economic and humanitarian implications. The region is central to global energy supplies and hosts thousands of Kenyan nationals working across key sectors. Any sustained disruption could affect trade flows, remittances and regional security arrangements.

Iran has maintained that its strikes were directed at U.S.-linked military infrastructure in Gulf states. However, several governments in the region have condemned the attacks as violations of sovereignty and warned against further escalation.