The Government of Ghana has issued a strong diplomatic protest to Israel after seven Ghanaian travellers—including four Members of Parliament—were detained and subjected to what officials describe as inhumane, discriminatory, and unjustifiable treatment at the Ben Gurion International Airport in Tel Aviv.
This development has raised significant concern over diplomatic relations, international travel safety, and the treatment of Ghanaian citizens abroad.
Ghana Outraged by Detention of Citizens in Israel
Details of the Incident and Government Response
According to a press release issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Wednesday, December 10, 2025, seven Ghanaian nationals were detained upon arrival in Tel Aviv beginning Sunday, December 7, 2025.
Key details include:
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Four MPs were in Israel to attend the Annual International Cybersecurity Conference.
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They were detained without cause and released only after more than five hours of strenuous diplomatic intervention.
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Three additional Ghanaian travellers were deported on the next available flight and have since arrived safely in Ghana.
The Ministry described Israel’s actions as deliberate targeting, “inhumane,” and “traumatic.”
Government Describes Treatment as Discriminatory and Unacceptable
The official statement noted:
“The Government of Ghana considers the actions of the Israeli authorities as unfairly targeting Ghanaian travellers and accordingly conveys its strong reservations against the humiliating treatment of our citizens at the Ben Gurion International Airport.”
The Ministry further condemned the conduct of Israeli officials as:
“Extremely provocative, unacceptable and inconsistent with our friendly historical relations.”
Ghana and Israel have maintained more than six decades of diplomatic relations and high volumes of unhindered travel, making the incident particularly alarming for authorities.
Israel’s Justification Rejected by Ghana
Israel reportedly claimed that the detentions were linked to alleged non-cooperation from Ghana’s Embassy in Tel Aviv in processing deportation protocols.
The Ministry sharply rejected this explanation, stating it is:
“Totally untenable. Our mission in Tel Aviv has been responsive and compliant with international law.”
Next Steps: Ghana Summons Israeli Embassy Officials
Government Considers Reciprocal Action
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs will summon officials of the Israeli Embassy in Accra to formally register Ghana’s displeasure “in the strongest possible terms.”
The statement added that government is weighing appropriate reciprocal action, signalling escalating diplomatic friction.
Official Remarks from the Minister of Foreign Affairs
In a social media post, Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa reinforced Ghana’s firm stance:
“The Government of Ghana is appalled at the ill-treatment meted out to Ghanaian travellers by Israeli authorities. We strongly protest. Ghana is considering immediate reciprocal action.”
Steps Ghanaian Travellers Should Take When Facing Detention Abroad
Although this incident is state-level, travellers can follow these protective steps:
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Contact Your Embassy Immediately
Ensure the consular office is notified of any detention or dispute. -
Request Access to Legal Representation
International law entitles travellers to legal access. -
Document Events Carefully
Record times, officer names, and incidents once permitted. -
Avoid Escalation
Remain calm while awaiting diplomatic support. -
Report Incident Upon Return
Provide statements to support future diplomatic actions.
FAQs on the Ghana–Israel Airport Detention Incident
1. Why were the Ghanaian travellers detained?
No official cause was provided. Ghana disputes Israel’s claims regarding embassy non-cooperation.
2. Who were the affected individuals?
Seven Ghanaians, including four Members of Parliament and three other travellers.
3. Were the detainees harmed?
The government described the treatment as “inhumane” and “traumatic,” but no physical injuries were reported.
4. What actions is Ghana taking?
Summoning Israeli Embassy officials and considering reciprocal diplomatic action.
5. What does this mean for Ghana–Israel relations?
The incident introduces tension into a historically friendly diplomatic relationship.
