The Government of Ghana has activated emergency evacuation plans for citizens in the Middle East following escalating military hostilities involving the United States of America, the State of Israel and the Islamic Republic of Iran.
In a statement, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said it is “closely monitoring with serious concern the escalating hostilities in the Middle East,” citing coordinated military strikes by the US and Israel against Iran, as well as reported retaliatory actions by Iran against Israel and U.S. military assets in the region.
The Ministry noted that the unfolding situation has affected several countries, including Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates, leading to airspace closures, flight disruptions and heightened security alerts.
“An emergency preparedness plan has been activated, and assessments are ongoing regarding the evacuation of Ghanaian nationals where necessary,” the Ministry said. It further disclosed that “the Government has initiated the evacuation of a number of staff of the Embassy of Ghana in Tehran, retaining essential personnel to coordinate assistance to Ghanaians in the Islamic Republic of Iran.”
The Government of Ghana also called on all parties to exercise restraint and return to diplomatic engagement. “Ghana calls on all sides to de-escalate tensions in the interest of protecting lives, ensuring economic stability and safeguarding lasting regional peace,” the Ministry stated.
Ghanaian nationals have been advised to avoid non-essential travel to and from the Middle East. Those resident in affected countries have been urged to remain indoors where possible, comply strictly with local security directives, avoid large gatherings and sensitive locations, and maintain regular contact with the nearest Ghanaian diplomatic mission.
The Ministry assured that Ghana’s diplomatic missions across the region remain operational and available to provide consular assistance, urging citizens in distress to reach out for emergency support.
Ghanaian nationals requiring emergency consular support may contact:
Source: Starrfm.com.gh/Fred Duhoe
