Ghana has executed a decisive diplomatic response by deporting three Israeli citizens from Kotoka International Airport in Accra, following alleged mistreatment of Ghanaian nationals at Israel’s Ben Gurion International Airport. The move appears to be a direct reciprocal action in a growing bilateral dispute.
The tension escalated after seven Ghanaian citizens, including four official delegates attending a cybersecurity conference in Tel Aviv, were reportedly detained without explanation by Israeli authorities. According to Ghanaian officials, four members of the delegation were released after five hours of detention, while three other Ghanaian travelers faced deportation.
Ghana’s Foreign Ministry strongly condemned what it described as “humiliating treatment” of its citizens, summoning a senior Israeli diplomat in Accra to address the incident. Both nations have subsequently agreed to pursue amicable resolution measures despite the current strains.
In an official statement, the Ghanaian government expressed concern that Israeli authorities were “unfairly targeting Ghanaian travellers” and emphasized expectations that Ghanaian citizens “be treated with dignity and respect in much the same way as other governments expect Ghana to treat their nationals.”
The diplomatic friction may be connected to Ghana’s recent foreign policy positions regarding the Israel-Palestinian conflict. In September, Ghana condemned Israeli airstrikes near Qatar as “clear violation of international law,” and previously urged Israel to facilitate increased humanitarian aid to Gaza. President John Mahama further demonstrated solidarity by donating 40 tonnes of Ghanaian chocolate and cocoa products to Palestinians.
Analysts suggest these actions may have contributed to current tensions, particularly if perceived by Israel as demonstrating bias. However, Ghana maintains that its embassy in Tel Aviv remains “responsive and compliant with international law,” countering Israeli claims of non-cooperation regarding deportation procedures.
Despite the current dispute, both nations acknowledge decades of generally friendly relations, making the recent incidents particularly notable within their diplomatic history.