Dr Nana Yaw Mireku, an international relations analyst, has warned that Ghana and other African countries could see an influx of refugees if the ongoing US-Israel attack on Iran escalates into a wider regional conflict.

Speaking on the AM Show, Dr Mireku said instability in the Middle East could push people to seek safe havens in Africa.

“If it becomes a regional conflict, if Saudi Arabia and other Gulf countries decide to respond and the area is no longer hospitable, there’s a possibility people might want to find safe havens elsewhere. And what’s wrong with them coming to Africa?” he asked.

He highlighted previous instances where displaced people have arrived in African countries, noting that even non-refugees from Lebanon have sought refuge in Ghana.

Dr Mireku also referenced a recent case where Palestinians reportedly landed in South Africa, emphasising that the continent could again serve as a sanctuary for those fleeing escalating violence.

The expert cautioned that while Africa could play a humanitarian role, there are questions about how prepared Ghana’s systems are to absorb large numbers of refugees, particularly if the conflict intensifies.

The comments come amid rising tensions in the Middle East following US-Israel military actions against Iran, which analysts say could destabilise the region and trigger broader displacement.

Ghana, like other countries in Africa, has previously hosted refugees and asylum seekers from conflict zones, highlighting the importance of robust migration and humanitarian policies.