Israel’s Ambassador to Ghana, Roey Gilad, has declared the unconditional release of hostages held by Hamas an absolute prerequisite for any lasting peace in Gaza.
In an exclusive interview with Asaase News, Gilad emphasized resolving the humanitarian crisis – including approximately 50 Israelis held in “inhumane conditions for nearly two years” – must precede meaningful negotiations.
He described the captives’ plight as a shared tragedy for Israeli and Palestinian peoples, squarely blaming Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad for derailing peace through persistent violence and ideological extremism.
Ambassador Gilad affirmed Israel’s commitment to peaceful coexistence but ruled out security compromises, citing Hamas’s October 7, 2023 attacks as evidence of ongoing threats. “Hamas must lay down their weapons and release our hostages. If we don’t address this challenge once and for all, the conflict will continue to haunt us,” he stated, presenting disarmament and hostage return as the sole viable solution. The envoy underscored Israel’s vigilance against future attacks, pointing to continued militant rhetoric promising further violence.
Separately, Gilad confirmed preparations for high-level Ghana-Israel talks slated for late 2025, aiming to reinforce historic ties dating to 1956 when Ghana became the first African nation to host an Israeli diplomatic mission. While praising the “second to none” friendship, he acknowledged tensions over Ghana’s voting patterns at international forums.
Israel expressed particular disappointment with Ghana’s recent abstention on an IAEA resolution censuring Iran, despite Ghana chairing the session. Though acknowledging Ghana’s traditional neutrality in such roles, Gilad characterized the abstention as inconsistent with the depth of bilateral relations.
The planned dialogue, involving a Ghanaian Foreign Ministry delegation visiting Israel, seeks to align diplomatic approaches and address emerging concerns.
Gilad expressed confidence that open discussions would reinforce shared values, noting, “In such dialogues, we usually iron out our differences.” Despite diplomatic friction, he emphasized that mutual respect and enduring bonds remain foundational to the relationship under Ghana’s ruling National Democratic Congress government.
