Israel-Iran War: Gov’t orders evacuation of Ghanaians from Iran

The Government of Ghana has announced the immediate evacuation of its citizens from Iran in response to the rapidly escalating conflict between Israel and Iran.

In a statement shared via X (formerly Twitter), Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, disclosed that the Mahama-led administration has authorized urgent steps to ensure the safety of all Ghanaian nationals residing in Iran.

“The Mahama Administration has, in the interest of the protection of Ghanaian lives, decided to immediately evacuate Ghanaians living in Iran following an escalation of the Israel-Iran conflict. To guarantee the safety of our embassy staff, Ghana’s embassy in Tehran has been closed with immediate effect,” the Minister stated.

The evacuation will proceed through land borders and includes diplomats, students, professionals, and other Ghanaian residents.

Mr. Ablakwa emphasized that the government is closely monitoring developments in Israel and will issue further guidance in due course.

In the meantime, operations at Ghana’s embassy in Tel Aviv have been significantly scaled down. All Ghanaians in Israel are advised to remain in close contact with the consular office.

This move follows a surprise Israeli military offensive last Friday that reportedly decimated senior Iranian military leaders and struck nuclear installations—sparking fears of a wider regional war.

Iran has vowed a fierce retaliation, with officials warning of “opening the gates of hell” in response.

Over the weekend, Iranian missiles struck the Israeli cities of Tel Aviv and Haifa, causing massive destruction to residential areas and escalating global tensions.

At the G7 Summit, world leaders voiced grave concern that the situation could spiral into a full-blown Middle East war. Ablakwa reiterated Ghana’s call for peace and diplomacy.

The Foreign Ministry assures the public that every necessary measure is being taken to safeguard Ghanaians in affected regions.