Foreign affairs minister says Israel has apologised as Ghana calls for de-escalation in diplomatic row

Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has confirmed that Israeli authorities have issued an apology following the deportation of three Ghanaian nationals, urging a de-escalation of the ongoing diplomatic tension.

Speaking on Joy FM’s Super Morning Show on Thursday, December 12, the minister stressed that Ghana had made its position clear—any unjustified treatment of its citizens abroad would be met with a firm and equal response.

He explained that Israel’s explanation for the deportations was “absolutely untenable,” adding, “The Israeli authorities have now apologised for their actions and are calling for de-escalation because we made it clear that if they deport 10 Ghanaians, we will deport 10; if they deport 20, we will deport 20; 50, we will deport 50. We are not going to accept this.”

The apology follows Ghana’s decision to expel three Israeli nationals in what the government described as a reciprocal action to protect the dignity and rights of its citizens. According to a December 10, 2025, statement from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, two of the affected Ghanaians were attending a cybersecurity conference and the third was on pilgrimage when they were removed from Israel under unacceptable conditions.

The government’s move, grounded in the Vienna Convention, was aimed at affirming Ghana’s commitment to safeguarding its people abroad. Ablakwa emphasised that the action served as a strong reminder that every Ghanaian regardless of status deserves respect and protection, and highlighted the need for mutual respect between nations.