The Kenyan National Police Service has denied circulating rumours that it plans to take part in the United States-Israel versus Iran conflict.
Fighting intensified on February 28, culminating in the reported death of Iran’s leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
In response, Tehran launched counter-attacks aimed at American military installations across the Middle East as well as targets inside Israel, triggering statements from leaders around the world, including Kenya’s President William Ruto.
Although President Ruto maintained the neutral position he has upheld since hostilities began, a widely shared clip online suggested a contrasting stance from Kenya’s police service.
According to posts circulating on platforms such as Facebook and WhatsApp, Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja had allegedly declared the force’s readiness to engage in the war.
“Police IG Kanja assures Kenyans that they are safe from USA, Israel Iran attacks, as Kenya Police is ready for war!” the viral message claimed, as reported by Tuko.
The National Police Service later dismissed the claim through its official communication channels, clarifying that neither the Inspector General nor the institution had issued such a statement.
Rising tensions between the U.S., Israel and Iran
Recent days have seen the Middle East plunge into one of its most serious military crises in decades, with the United States and Israel confronting the Islamic Republic of Iran.
The escalation followed coordinated large-scale air and missile operations carried out by Washington and Tel Aviv against Iranian targets.
Key leadership figures, defence infrastructure and strategic sites in Tehran and other regions were struck during the offensive.
Reports indicate that Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, was killed during the attacks a development that dramatically intensified the situation.
Khamenei had been Iran’s highest political and religious authority since 1989. Iranian state media confirmed his death after initial disclosures from U.S. and Israeli officials, prompting a period of national mourning.
Tehran retaliated with widespread strikes against Israeli territory and American military facilities in the Gulf.
Missiles and drones were launched toward Israel as well as U.S. bases in Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates.
Explosions and destruction have been reported in several Gulf cities, heightening concerns about a broader regional conflict.
The violence has led to casualties across all parties involved.
Washington confirmed the deaths of three American service members, alongside injuries. Israel has also reported fatalities and damage resulting from Iranian missile attacks.
Inside Iran, hundreds are said to have been killed in the initial bombardments and ensuing clashes, with many more wounded.
The rapid deterioration of the situation has prompted strong international reactions. Some global figures, including Vladimir Putin, criticised Khamenei’s killing as a breach of international norms, while others have called for de-escalation.
Iranian authorities have vowed retaliation, describing the U.S.–Israeli operations as unlawful and warning that further responses may follow.