The government of Ghana has strongly condemned what it described as “inhumane and traumatic” treatment of its citizens by Israeli authorities at Ben Gurion International Airport in Tel Aviv. Accra’s foreign ministry lodged a formal protest after several Ghanaian travellers were detained or deported without clear justification upon arrival.
The incident involved seven Ghanaian nationals, including four members of a parliamentary delegation heading to an international cybersecurity conference. Those seven were held for several hours and released only after intensive diplomatic engagement. Another three Ghanaian travellers were denied entry and returned to Ghana on the next available flight.
Accra described the conduct by Israeli authorities as inconsistent with decades of historically cordial relations. The foreign ministry said it viewed the targeting of Ghanaian travellers as unacceptable, highlighting a need for all visitors from friendly nations to be treated with dignity and respect. Ghana has since summoned officials from the Israeli embassy to communicate its objections, even as it considers reciprocal diplomatic measures to prevent future occurrences.
The dispute adds pressure to bilateral ties, prompting discussions on diplomatic protocols and the equitable treatment of citizens travelling abroad. Both sides have signalled willingness to engage in dialogue to address the concerns and restore normal travel relations.
