Joe Nyutu details why Ruto should have remained silent on Iran-US conflict
By Ndiritu Wanjiru, March 4, 2026Murang’a Senator Joe Nyutu has criticised President William Ruto over his remarks on the ongoing conflict between the United States and Iran, saying the Head of State should have exercised caution and remained neutral on the ongoing conflict between the US and Iran that is spilling over to the Middle East.
Speaking during a morning interview on a local TV station on Wednesday, March 4, 2026, Nyutu argued that Kenya has traditionally maintained cordial diplomatic relations with both countries. The outspoken senator detailed that it would have been more prudent for the president to avoid taking a side in a dispute involving two nations that Kenya considers friends and key international partners.
“Kenya is a friend to both the United States and Iran. The best approach in such a scenario would have been to remain silent rather than taking sides,” Nyutu stated.
According to the Murang’a lawmaker, foreign policy decisions must be guided by Kenya’s long-term strategic interests and its reputation as a neutral and peace-loving nation. Joe Nyutu warned that appearing to lean toward one side could complicate diplomatic relations and potentially affect trade, security cooperation, and bilateral engagements.
He emphasised that silence in certain international disputes can be a strategic diplomatic tool, particularly when a country has no direct stake in the conflict.
Nyutu backs Ruto on evacuation
However, the senator threw his weight behind President Ruto’s call for the protection and evacuation of Kenyans caught up in the conflict. He said the government has a constitutional obligation to safeguard its citizens abroad and should prioritise their safety above all else.
Nyutu urged relevant state agencies to move with speed to account for Kenyans in affected areas and facilitate their safe return where necessary.
Ruto’s sentiments on US-Iran conflict
The remarks from Nyutu have come days after recent remarks by President Ruto in which he addressed the US-Iran conflict, calling for de-escalation and restraint.
In his statement, the president also made comments that were widely interpreted as signalling Kenya’s position in support of one side, a move that has since sparked mixed reactions from political leaders and foreign policy observers across the country.