Switzerland Continues its Close Cooperation with Israel
The Swiss government claims “close cooperation” with Israel. This cooperation continues normally, despite the crimes – genocide, war crimes, crimes against humanity – committed by Israel in the Occupied Palestinian Territory.
According to the website of the Swiss Confederation: “Bilateral relations between Switzerland and Israel are good, characterized by mutual trust and close cooperation in cultural, economic, scientific, and more recently, innovation fields (…). In 2023, the volume of bilateral trade amounted to 1.675 billion francs. Scientific cooperation in various sectors – financial technologies (fintech), cyber technologies (cybertech), medical technologies (medtech), Tech4Good, climate, etc. – which is based on a bottom-up principle, can also help build trust to successfully address geopolitical challenges.” It is indeed the case that
- Switzerland buys and sells weapons and dual-use goods to Israel
- Trade continues between the two countries. The sale of products from illegal settlements in Switzerland is permitted.
- The Swiss National Bank invests in the Israeli military industry.
- Private investments in this industry are permitted.
Switzerland is not Fulfilling its Legal Obligations
As the depositary of the Geneva Conventions, Switzerland has specific obligations. The Swiss government does not intend to fulfill them.
Under the Geneva Conventions, Switzerland must convene a diplomatic conference to examine violations of said Conventions and propose measures. Switzerland has refused to do so.
Switzerland is Taking No Measures
Many European countries have taken measures to encourage Israel to comply with international law. The Swiss government is doing nothing.
Many European countries have imposed sanctions against Israel or, at the very least, against certain Israeli political officials. With very few exceptions, countries that had not yet recognized a State of Palestine have decided to do so. Cooperations between several European states and Israel have been suspended. However, Switzerland has taken no action. The Independent Commission of Inquiry of the United Nations Human Rights Council, which has issued several reports on the situation in the Occupied Palestinian Territory and found the commission of the crime of genocide, nevertheless recommends that all states take measures (including the imposition of sanctions) against the State of Israel.