A conference on the application of the Geneva Conventions to the occupied Palestinian territories has been cancelled due to lack of support from countries. The Swiss government had invited 196 parties to participate in the conference, which was set to address humanitarian protections for civilians living in areas of armed conflict or occupation.
The conference’s draft declaration fell short of expectations, according to Palestinian envoy Ibrahim Khraishi. He stated that the international community needs to take concrete measures against Israel, including economic or diplomatic steps, and implement the Geneva Conventions.
Israel criticized the conference, calling it part of “legal warfare against Israel”. The British government also expressed concerns about attending the conference due to a proposed declaration that was seen as too critical of Israel. Despite some European countries planning to attend, diplomats from Western states supporting Israel privately expressed concerns.
Switzerland had prided itself on hosting summits and peace talks, but this cancellation is seen as a diplomatic blow. The country’s Foreign Affairs Ministry confirmed the cancellation after expressing dissatisfaction from some participating countries.
Source: https://www.reuters.com/world/switzerland-cancels-geneva-conventions-meeting-occupied-palestinian-territories-2025-03-06