The Government of Ghana has announced the immediate closure of its embassy in Tehran, citing growing hostilities between Iran and Israel. The decision, announced on Monday, 16 June, aims to safeguard the lives of Ghanaian nationals amid escalating regional tensions.
- Ghana announced the immediate closure of its embassy in Tehran due to escalating regional tensions between Iran and Israel.
- Ghanaian authorities emphasized their commitment to the safety and welfare of citizens abroad during these conflicts.
- Evacuation efforts for Ghanaian nationals in Iran are underway, including diplomats, students, and professionals.
Evacuation of Ghanaian nationals underway
Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, confirmed the development via a social media update, noting that the Mahama-led administration is taking swift action to evacuate all Ghanaians 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,” Mr Ablakwa posted.
He further stated: “To guarantee the safety of our embassy staff, Ghana’s embassy in Tehran has been closed with immediate effect.”
DON’T MISS THIS: Trump considers extending travel ban to 25 African nations, including Nigeria, Ghana
According to the minister, evacuation efforts are already in progress through Iran’s land borders and will cover Ghanaian diplomats, students, and professionals.
Safety measures extended to Israel
In addition to the actions taken in Iran, the minister disclosed that the government is closely monitoring the situation in Israel and may take further steps if necessary.
“In the interim, we have instructed that embassy operations in Tel Aviv be reduced to the barest minimum, and all Ghanaians in Israel must maintain close communication with our consular department,” he said.
Commitment to peace and citizen welfare
The government reiterated its commitment to the safety and wellbeing of Ghanaian citizens abroad and renewed its call for a peaceful and diplomatic resolution to the ongoing conflict.
DON’T MISS THIS: Nigeria condemns Israel’s attack on Iran, calls for restraint and dialogue
Mr Ablakwa assured that “every effort is being made to ensure the safe passage of all affected persons.”
The closure of the Tehran mission is part of broader precautionary measures being implemented as tensions rise in the Middle East.
