The UN Security Council convened today in an emergency session on the Middle East, called by Iran. Switzerland condemns the dangerous escalation of violence in the Middle East of which Israel's air strikes on Iran from Friday night into Saturday as well as Iran's firing of ballistic missiles into Israel earlier this month are part. Switzerland stressed that all hostilities in the region must cease immediately: “A regional war will not benefit any party and will endanger countless lives,” it stated in New York.
In light of this, Switzerland called on all Council members to act within the limits of international law and to uphold international humanitarian law under all circumstances. It also urged the full implementation of Security Council resolutions on the Middle East, including those mandating an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, the unconditional release of hostages, and safe, unhindered access for humanitarian aid. Switzerland further called for a ceasefire in Lebanon and the implementation of Resolution 1701.
In closing, Switzerland emphasized the urgent need to break the cycle of violence in the Middle East and avert a regional war, urging all parties to de-escalate and engage in dialogue. Switzerland supports all diplomatic efforts to immediately end the violence across the region.
