An international relations expert and lecturer, Prof. Agyenim Boateng, has stated that Ghana should not be dragged into the ongoing conflict in the Middle East following reports involving Ghanaian peacekeepers stationed in Lebanon.
Speaking on Nyankonton Mu Nsem on Rainbow Radio 87.5 FM, Prof. Boateng said he believes the foreign affairs minister, Samuel Okudzeto, was right to take the issue to the United Nations headquarters to officially lodge a complaint.
According to him, when the issue first came up, some people initially thought the incident occurred directly in Lebanon.
However, investigations indicate that Iran’s military facility may be located far from the area where the incident happened.
He explained that previous attacks by the United States on Iranian targets may have pushed Iran to also target bases they believed belonged to Americans.
Prof. Boateng explained that those behind the attack might not have known that the base contained Ghanaian peacekeepers.
As a result, the strike may have mistakenly affected personnel who were not part of the conflict.
He noted that Hon. Ablakwa has already indicated that a thorough investigation will be conducted to determine what exactly happened.
Prof. Boateng further explained that Ghanaian soldiers currently in Lebanon are there under a United Nations peacekeeping mission.
He added that the UN authorities are present in the area to help maintain peace because of the ongoing tensions in the region.
He cautioned that if countries begin to withdraw their troops from the mission, it could affect the work the UN is doing to stabilise the area.
He also stated that if any Ghanaian soldier was injured in the incident, authorities will ensure that the person receives proper medical attention and is brought back to Ghana if necessary.
Prof. Boateng said the mission commander, together with Ghanaian authorities, will conduct assessments to determine the condition of the soldiers.
He explained that while some may suffer physical injuries, others may also experience psychological trauma due to the situation.
He said after proper monitoring and care, those affected will receive the needed support before any further steps are taken.
Prof. Boateng stressed that the incident should not be interpreted as a reason for Ghana to become involved in the conflict.
By: Justina Ekua Kwofie/Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana
