Nairobi, April 15 -- The Iranian strikes on Israel on Saturday night could pose both a diplomatic and trade challenge to Kenya and her neighbours who are keen to avoid taking sides in the escalating hostilities in the Middle East.

Kenya's President William Ruto and his South African counterpart Cyril Ramaphosa took a reconciliatory tone as they cautioned that the latest skirmishes in the gulf are a threat to security and peace globally as the act could escalate to a full war if not checked.

Kenya's importation of oil, cereals and mechanical equipment could be affected adversely following the latest incursions in the Middle East as Kenya's Trade Minister warned of challenges in trade logistics.

Iran on Saturday night launched a wave of ...