The Iranian Embassy in Nairobi has come out to deny reports linking the Islamic Republic of Iran to alleged terror plots in Kenya.
In a statement released on Wednesday, June 25, the Embassy termed the reports as baseless and politically motivated, while pointing an accusing finger at an unnamed adversary.
The response followed media reports, which cited an alleged statement from the National Intelligence Service, which allegedly warned of potential terror threats during the anniversary of the June 25 protests.
"In light of a statement attributed to the National Intelligence Service (NIS) of Kenya circulated by a few local news platforms, the Spokesperson of the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran in Nairobi wishes to state that Such delusional and fabricated scenarios are the product of hostile elements," the statement read in part.
The Embassy further emphasised that Iran had no operatives aligned with such activities, adding that Iran enjoyed close diplomatic ties with Kenya.
“As one of the primary victims of terrorism, the Islamic Republic of Iran has consistently fought against terrorist organisations such as Daesh (ISIS) and Al-Qaeda,” the embassy said.
Iran, through the Embassy, also sent a warning to Kenya against publishing unverified security reports, which were likely to cause alarm and potentially severe diplomatic ties.
As far as conflict is concerned, Iran has been embroiled in an escalating war with Israel, in a battle that has left hundreds dead and thousands either injured or displaced.
The conflict, which erupted on June 13, dragged on for two weeks before a curious ceasefire was agreed upon on June 24 with the help of international mediators, including Qatar.
Both countries have pointed an accusing finger at each other, with Iran accusing Israel of "Zionist aggression." Israel, meanwhile, has insisted it was simply protecting itself against hostile proxies and Iranian expansionism in the region.
In Kenya, the June 25 protests went on as planned, although several unfortunate incidents of destruction of property and violent clashes between police officers and protesters were witnessed across the country.
Kenya's capital of Nairobi was a hotspot for running battles for most of the day on Wednesday, with several protesters reportedly injured in the mayhem. By Kenyans.co.ke