Ghana Closes Embassy in Tehran, Orders Evacuation of Citizens Amid Israel-Iran Conflict

Ghana Closes Embassy in Tehran, Orders Evacuation of Citizens Amid Israel-Iran Conflict

Ghana’s Embassy in Tehran has officially ceased public operations following heightened military confrontations between Israel and Iran, as Accra moves to safeguard its citizens amid rising regional instability.

In a Facebook post on Monday, June 16, 2025, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, announced the immediate evacuation of Ghanaians residing in Iran. The decision, he noted, was taken by the Mahama administration as a precautionary measure in response to escalating hostilities between the two Middle Eastern powers.

“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,” the Minister stated.

While operations in Tehran have been suspended, the Foreign Ministry is also monitoring developments in Israel. Mr. Ablakwa disclosed that Ghana’s embassy in Tel Aviv will continue to operate on a limited basis and urged Ghanaian nationals in Israel to remain in close contact with the consular department.

“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.

Despite the closure of the Tehran mission, the Minister stressed that Ghana’s diplomatic relations with both countries remain “cordial and constructive,” adding that the move forms part of broader efforts to ensure the safety of Ghanaian nationals.

“No effort will be spared in protecting Ghanaian lives and keeping all Ghanaians out of harm’s way,” Mr. Ablakwa affirmed. He further called for calm and urged all parties involved to exercise restraint and prioritise diplomacy.

“The Government of Ghana reiterates its demand on both parties to pursue diplomatic options and end hostilities,” he said.

The decision comes amid a dramatic military escalation that began on Friday, June 13, when Israeli forces launched a large-scale airstrike on Iranian nuclear, missile, and military installations. The Israeli offensive, described by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as a preemptive effort to neutralise “an existential threat,” was followed by retaliatory attacks from Tehran, prompting fears of a broader regional war.

The United States has thrown its support behind Israel’s defence systems, intercepting waves of Iranian missiles and drones, although it has stopped short of direct involvement in the ongoing strikes.

Ghana now joins several countries scaling back diplomatic presence and accelerating contingency plans for their nationals in the volatile Middle East.