International relations expert and security analyst, Prof Vladimir Antwi-Danso, has urged the government to take urgent diplomatic and consular action to protect Ghanaian nationals affected by escalating tensions in the Middle East, particularly in countries where flights are being cancelled, and air travel is disrupted.
Speaking on JoyNews’ The Pulse on Monday, he stressed the importance of Ghana liaising with Gulf states and like-minded countries to ensure the safety of its citizens abroad.
“We are seeing flights cancelled all over. Government must liaise with those countries and coordinate with partners to safeguard the safety and security of our people,” he said.
His advice comes amid growing concerns over aviation safety in conflict-prone areas. Airlines operating in and around the Gulf region have suspended flights due to heightened risks, including potential missile threats and airspace instability.
The security analyst shared a personal note of concern, revealing that his son, a pilot with Qatar Airways, is currently stranded in Qatar because of flight cancellations.
“No plane flying in those areas has 100 percent assurance that it can fly in or out safely,” he said, highlighting the uncertainty facing both crews and passengers.
He also urged the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to take concrete steps to protect Ghanaian nationals, including: monitoring the safety of citizens in affected Gulf states, providing timely consular support to stranded individuals, coordinating evacuation plans if necessary and sharing real-time updates to keep families informed.
He emphasised that Ghana must also work within the framework of the United Nations to encourage de-escalation and stability in the region.
