Accra, Ghana — As tensions in the Middle East escalate following renewed hostilities between major powers, Ghana’s Government has moved swiftly to reassure its citizens abroad that their safety and welfare remain a top priority. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, Ghana’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, has provided multiple assurances that Ghanaians affected by the situation will be protected and supported by the state.
Addressing concerns over the impact of the crisis — sparked by intensified military actions involving the United States, Israel and Iran — Minister Ablakwa emphasised that the government remains committed to safeguarding Ghanaian nationals residing or travelling in the region. He reiterated that the safety and welfare of all Ghanaians, “particularly those currently in the Middle East”, remain the government’s “utmost priority.”
In recent days, rising tensions have disrupted travel and created uncertainty across the region. Many countries have closed airspace and cancelled flights, complicating travel plans for citizens abroad. In one instance, Ghana’s senior women’s national football team, the Black Queens, were left stranded in the United Arab Emirates after airspace closures disrupted flights amid security concerns — a situation the foreign minister confirmed had been closely monitored by Ghana’s diplomatic missions.
To further protect Ghanaian citizens, the government has activated emergency plans, including issuing travel advisories urging nationals to avoid non‑essential travel to the Middle East and to stay in regular contact with local authorities and Ghana’s diplomatic missions. Embassies in critical locations such as Tehran, Doha and the UAE are actively engaging with Ghanaians, offering assistance where required and, where necessary, facilitating emergency registrations to coordinate support or evacuation efforts.
In an earlier statement, Ablakwa also disclosed that Ghana had successfully evacuated its diplomatic staff from Iran, closing its embassy in Tehran indefinitely due to deteriorating security conditions. He emphasised that all evacuated personnel were unharmed, underscoring the government’s commitment to ensuring the safety of Ghanaians amid an unpredictable and volatile environment.
The Foreign Affairs Ministry has warned that the crisis’s broader implications — including potential disruptions to travel, fuel supplies and international trade — could have knock‑on effects globally, and especially in Africa. Regional organisations like ECOWAS have similarly expressed concern over the conflict’s far‑reaching consequences for peace, security and economic stability.
“We are closely monitoring developments and remain in constant communication with our missions on the ground,” Minister Ablakwa affirmed. “Every necessary action is being taken to ensure that Ghanaians are protected, supported, and informed during these turbulent times.”
The government continues to urge all Ghanaian nationals in the affected regions to stay vigilant, follow local safety guidelines, and maintain contact with Ghana’s diplomatic missions for updates and assistance.
