Bern, Press releases, 01.06.2010

The FDFA expresses its very serious concern following an incident of the coast of the Gaza Strip resulting from an assault by Israeli forces on an international convoy of ships bringing humanitarian supplies to the people of Gaza. Switzerland asks for an international inquiry to be conducted into the circumstances of this tragic event.

The FDFA deplores the deaths of several civilians and the injuries caused including to members of the Israeli forces. It expresses its condolences to the families and friends of the victims. Switzerland asks that a humanitarian inquiry be conducted to cast light on the circumstances of this tragic event. The FDFA invited the Israeli ambassador to provide further information about the event and to express it’s great concern.

According to the Geneva Conventions, Israel is obliged to ensure the supply of essential goods to meet the needs of the civilian population in terms of food and other living requirements, as well as medical supplies and other basic humanitarian necessities. Switzerland considers it is necessary to find a lasting solution to meeting the supply needs of the civilian population in Gaza and the reconstruction of the territory. It has proposed on several occasions that an international mechanism be put in place to allow regular access to the Gaza Strip while taking into account Israel’s security needs.


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Last update 19.07.2023

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