Switzerland Says Conditions Unmet for Recognizing Palestine
Swiss President Karin Keller-Sutter stated on Monday that the conditions required for recognizing Palestine have not yet been satisfied. She emphasized the importance of a permanent ceasefire and the establishment of a stable government before any recognition can take place.
Requirements for Recognition
Responding to a question from Anadolu at a press conference with the Foreign Press Association in Bern, Keller-Sutter outlined key conditions:
- Return of all hostages
- Repatriation of deceased bodies
- Permanent ceasefire agreement
- A clear peace plan
- Stable government with elections
"Recognition may come one day… when the conditions are fulfilled, but there must also be really a stable government, elections and so on."
On the Situation in Gaza and Genocide Claims
Regarding whether the situation in Gaza meets the criteria for genocide, Keller-Sutter stated:
"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 the determination of genocide will be made by international courts.
Zurich Canton’s Decision on Gaza Children
When asked about Zurich canton’s recent refusal to accept wounded children from Gaza for medical treatment, President Keller-Sutter clarified:
"It's up to cantons to decide."
She noted that such decisions rest with the cantonal authorities and not the federal government.
Author’s Summary
Switzerland holds firm that recognizing Palestine depends on fulfilled peace conditions, lawful international conduct, and local governance stability before any formal acknowledgment.