Nowhere to run: Ghanaians trapped in Israel as war with Iran seals borders

A significant number of Ghanaian citizens find themselves in a precarious situation in Israel, unable to leave the country as Israeli authorities have declared a state of emergency and closed all borders amid escalating conflict with Iran.

This critical update was provided by Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa via a Twitter post on Monday, June 16, outlining the government’s efforts to protect its nationals caught in the unfolding regional crisis.

According to Minister Ablakwa’s “UPDATE No. 2” on the situation, Ghana’s Embassy in Israel has identified 922 Ghanaians currently living in the country. This figure includes 65 Ghanaian students enrolled in six different Israeli universities, highlighting the diverse demographics of those affected.

Crucially, while no Ghanaian fatalities or injuries have been reported so far, and evacuation efforts from Iran are “proceeding successfully”, the situation in Israel presents unique challenges.

PROTECTING GHANAIANS DURING THE ISRAEL-IRAN CONFLICT (UPDATE No. 2)

1) No Ghanaian fatality or injuries.

2) Evacuation from Iran proceeding successfully.

3) Ghana’s embassy in Israel has identified 922 Ghanaians currently living in Israel.

4) Included in that figure are 65…

— Sam Okudzeto Ablakwa (@S_OkudzetoAblak) June 16, 2025

“With Israeli authorities declaring a state of emergency and closing all borders, an evacuation from Israel cannot be carried out now except with the express authorization of Israeli authorities,” Minister Ablakwa stated. He assured the public that Ghana is actively “pursuing those approval options” to facilitate a safe exit for its citizens.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has already approved an Emergency Evacuation Plan for Israel, which the Minister confirmed would be “promptly activated when conditions are met”.

In the interim, channels for regular communication with the Ghanaian community in Israel have been established to provide support and information.

Furthermore, in response to a briefing from the Israeli Foreign Ministry encouraging all diplomats and embassy officials to work from home, Ghana’s embassy in Israel is complying with this advice to ensure the safety of its staff.

Mr Ablakwa also emphasised that the government is “ensuring that all Ghanaians living in Israel have access to bomb shelters.”

The Mahama Administration, through the Foreign Affairs Ministry, has reiterated its firm commitment to safeguarding its citizens.

“President Mahama’s Administration is resolved to spare no effort in ensuring that Ghanaians caught up in this Israeli-Iranian conflict are offered full protection and removed from danger. We shall not fail our compatriots,” Mr Ablakwa affirmed.

As the conflict intensifies and borders remain sealed, the focus remains on diplomatic engagement to secure the necessary authorizations for the safe evacuation of Ghanaians from Israel.

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