Iran’s Ambassador to Kenya, Ali Gholampour, has defended his country’s response to the ongoing military confrontation involving the United States and Israel, maintaining that Tehran is acting within its legal rights and has no desire to see the conflict widen.
Addressing journalists during a press briefing in Nairobi on Monday, the envoy described the recent strikes on Iran as unlawful acts of aggression that violated the country’s sovereignty and breached international law. He stated that some of the attacks were launched from U.S. military bases in the region, including installations in the Persian Gulf.
Citing Article 51 of the United Nations Charter, Gholampour said Iran’s response is grounded in its inherent right to self-defence.
“When a nation is attacked, it cannot remain passive,” he said. “Self-defence is recognized under international law, and Iran is determined to safeguard its people and territorial integrity.”
The ambassador called on the United Nations Security Council to urgently intervene and halt the hostilities, warning that failure to act could erode global security frameworks.
“If such aggression goes unchecked, it weakens international law and undermines collective security,” he noted, urging independent nations and global institutions to intensify diplomatic efforts aimed at de-escalation.
Gholampour also sought to reassure Kenya and the broader African continent that the confrontation would not spill beyond the Middle East. He emphasized that Iran’s military capabilities are defensive in nature and do not pose a threat to friendly nations.
“Our missile systems are limited in range and strictly defensive,” he said. “Iran values its long-standing relations with Kenya and has no intention of harming partner states.”
On the safety of foreign nationals, including Kenyans residing in Iran, the envoy said Tehran is cooperating with diplomatic missions to facilitate safe departures for those wishing to leave. He indicated that exit arrangements are being coordinated through official channels to ensure orderly and secure travel.
Turning to the global economic implications of the crisis, Gholampour acknowledged that sustained fighting could disrupt oil supplies, shipping routes and food security. As a significant energy producer, he said, Iran plays a crucial role in international oil markets, and instability could trigger fuel price increases and economic strain in multiple regions.
“War does not only affect those on the battlefield,” he said. “It disrupts trade, transport systems, food distribution and energy supply chains. Ordinary citizens bear the heaviest burden.”
He added that despite the tensions, Iran has made efforts to maintain oil exports and safeguard regional trade flows, cautioning that further escalation could exacerbate economic challenges worldwide.
The ambassador further condemned reported attacks on civilian infrastructure, including schools and hospitals, terming such actions a violation of humanitarian principles. He expressed sympathy for families affected by the violence and appealed to the international community to prioritize civilian protection.
“Civilians must never be targets,” he stated. “The loss of innocent lives is both tragic and unacceptable.”
Gholampour dismissed allegations that neighbouring states encouraged or supported the strikes against Iran, saying Tehran continues to maintain diplomatic communication with regional governments and does not believe they intended to inflame the situation.
Regarding prospects for dialogue, the envoy reiterated that Iran remains open to negotiations but stressed that meaningful engagement can only occur once military operations cease.
“We did not seek this confrontation,” he said. “It was imposed upon us. The path to peace begins with stopping the aggression, after which diplomacy can resume.”
His remarks come amid heightened global concern over the expanding conflict, with governments worldwide calling for restraint and immediate steps to prevent further loss of life.
From Nairobi, Iran’s message was unequivocal: while asserting its right to self-defence under international law, Tehran is simultaneously urging the international community to act decisively to restore stability and avert a broader crisis.
