Ghana Deports Three Israelis After Alleged Mistreatment of Ghanaians in Tel Aviv

Ghana has deported three Israeli nationals who arrived in Accra on Wednesday, in what officials describe as a reciprocal response to the alleged mistreatment of Ghanaian citizens at Ben Gurion International Airport in Israel. The decision marks a rare diplomatic flare up between the two countries, prompting swift efforts on both sides to ease tensions.

According to Ghanaian authorities, seven Ghanaian nationals were detained without explanation upon arrival in Tel Aviv. The group included four members of an official delegation attending a cyber security conference. They were reportedly held for five hours before being released, while three others were denied entry and deported back to Ghana. The foreign ministry condemned what it called the “humiliating treatment” of its citizens and lodged a formal complaint.

In response to the incident, Ghana deported three Israeli travelers upon their arrival at Kotoka International Airport. Officials said the action was intended to mirror Israel’s handling of the Ghanaian delegation and to send a clear message that the country expects its citizens to be treated with respect abroad.

The foreign ministry confirmed that it had summoned a senior diplomat from the Israeli embassy in Accra to explain the events in Tel Aviv. Both governments have since agreed to open discussions aimed at resolving the matter amicably and preventing similar disputes in the future. Diplomats say the two countries enjoy generally stable relations, and the swift communication suggests both sides are working to restore normalcy.

For now, the episode highlights ongoing concerns about airport screening practices and the treatment of African travelers in various international hubs. Ghana’s firm response underscores its growing willingness to defend its citizens in cases of perceived unfair or disrespectful treatment.