Switzerland on Recognizing Palestine
Swiss President Karin Keller-Sutter stated on Monday that the country has not yet met the conditions required to officially recognize Palestine. She emphasized the necessity of a permanent ceasefire and a stable government for such recognition to occur.
Conditions for Recognition
"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."
She added that recognition could happen “one day… when the conditions are fulfilled,” including the establishment of a stable government and elections.
Switzerland’s Stance on Gaza Conflict
Keller-Sutter addressed the question of whether genocide criteria have been met in Gaza, stating:
"Switzerland condemns every violation of international law. So we condemned the disproportionate intervention of Israel, as well as the terrorist attack of Hamas."
She noted that determinations such as genocide would ultimately be made by international courts.
Zurich Canton’s Medical Care Decision
When asked about Zurich canton’s recent refusal to accept sick children from Gaza, President Keller-Sutter clarified that medical care decisions are made by cantons rather than federal authorities:
"It's up to cantons to decide."
Author’s Summary
Switzerland maintains a cautious approach to recognizing Palestine, emphasizing the need for peace, justice, and stable governance before formal recognition.