Switzerland: Conditions for Palestine Recognition Still Unmet
Swiss President Karin Keller-Sutter stated on Monday that Switzerland has not yet met the necessary conditions for recognizing Palestine. She emphasized the importance of a permanent ceasefire, a stable government, and the return of all hostages and deceased bodies.
"We feel that there are some conditions that have to be fulfilled, like all the hostages must return home, and also the dead bodies. There must be a permanent ceasefire, there must be a plan for peace."
Keller-Sutter explained that recognition could happen in the future, but only once these requirements are met. She also highlighted the need for stable governance and democratic processes, such as elections.
"Recognition may come one day… when the conditions are fulfilled, but there must also be really a stable government, elections and so on."
When asked about whether genocide criteria have been met in Gaza, Keller-Sutter responded that Switzerland condemns all violations of international law, including both Israel's disproportionate actions and Hamas's terrorist attacks. She noted that the determination of genocide is a matter for international courts.
"Switzerland condemns every violation of international law. So we condemned the disproportionate intervention of Israel, as well as the terrorist attack of Hamas. If there is a genocide or not, will be decided by international courts."
Regarding the recent decision by Zurich canton to refuse medical care for wounded children from Gaza, Keller-Sutter clarified that such decisions are made at the cantonal level, not by the federal government.
"It's up to cantons to decide."
Author's summary: Switzerland maintains that recognition of Palestine depends on fulfilling key conditions, including peace, stability, and adherence to international law, while stressing that decisions on humanitarian aid rest with local authorities.