Middle East Crisis: Ghana arranges evacuation for nationals in Qatar

The government of Ghana has started plans to evacuate its citizens from Qatar due to rising tensions in the Middle East linked to the ongoing conflict involving Iran, Israel, and the United States.

The announcement was made on March 15, 2026, in a statement from the Ghanaian Embassy in Qatar.

Ghanaians living in Qatar who want to be evacuated have been asked to send the biodata page of their passports by email to the embassy so preparations can begin.

Reason for the evacuation

The embassy explained that the decision was taken because of growing security concerns in the region. The government wants to ensure the safety of its citizens living in Qatar.

The embassy also said the evacuation will only be a one-way trip from Qatar back to Ghana. Citizens who want to leave must confirm their interest as soon as possible by submitting their passport details.

Background

The evacuation plan comes as several countries take steps to protect their citizens abroad due to the escalating conflict involving Iran, Israel, and the United States.

On March 14, authorities in the United Arab Emirates reported that people from different countries were injured during an alleged attack linked to Iran.

The UAE Ministry of Defence said its air defence systems intercepted nine ballistic missiles and 33 drones during the incident. The attack reportedly caused six deaths and injured more than 100 people from several countries, including Ghana and Nigeria.

Nigeria has also released emergency contact details for its diplomatic missions across the Middle East to help citizens who may be affected by the conflict.

Situation in Qatar

Authorities in Qatar reported intercepting several projectiles linked to Iran. According to available information:

127 ballistic missiles were detected, with 118 intercepted.

63 drones were detected, with 47 intercepted.

Seven cruise missiles were detected and destroyed.

Two Sukhoi Su-24 aircraft were also detected and intercepted.

Diplomatic efforts

Despite the rising tensions, diplomatic efforts are ongoing to reduce the conflict.

France’s president, Emmanuel Macron, recently said he spoke with Iran’s president, Massoud Pezeshkian, urging him to stop what he described as unacceptable attacks carried out by Iran or groups linked to it across the region.

However, it remains unclear when the conflict will calm down as fighting continues in several parts of the Middle East.