Switzerland says conditions remain unmet for recognizing Palestine

Switzerland Says Conditions Remain Unmet for Recognizing Palestine

Swiss President Karin Keller-Sutter stated that the conditions required for Switzerland to recognize Palestine have not yet been fulfilled. She highlighted the need for a lasting ceasefire, a functioning government, and the return of hostages and deceased individuals.

"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 made the comments during a press conference with the Foreign Press Association in Bern, responding to a question from Anadolu. She acknowledged that recognition might become possible in the future once these preconditions are met, emphasizing the importance of stable governance and legitimate 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 whether Switzerland considers the situation in Gaza to meet the criteria for genocide, Keller-Sutter stressed Switzerland's consistent stance on international law.

"Switzerland condemns every violation of international law. So we condemned the disproportionate intervention of Israel, as well as the terrorist attack of Hamas."

She added that determining whether the events qualify as genocide is the responsibility of international courts.

"If there is a genocide or not, will be decided by international courts."

Zurich Canton and Gaza Children

Responding to a question about Zurich canton’s refusal to accept wounded children from Gaza for medical care, the president clarified that such matters fall under cantonal rather than federal jurisdiction.

"It's up to cantons to decide."

Author’s Summary

President Karin Keller-Sutter reaffirmed that Switzerland’s recognition of Palestine depends on lasting peace, stable governance, and humanitarian resolution, underscoring respect for international law and local autonomy.

Anadolu Ajansı — 2025-11-04