Switzerland has agreed to host an international conference on the occupied Palestinian territories, despite its reluctance to take a position on the ongoing conflict. The event, which aims to address the application of the fourth Geneva Convention to the region, is seen as a technical-level gathering without big names or binding resolutions.
The request for Switzerland to organize the conference came from the United Nations General Assembly six months ago, following the Israeli-Palestinian war. However, some countries have expressed dissatisfaction with the final declaration set to be published on Friday, which has led to the cancellation of an initial announcement.
Switzerland’s decision to host the event is motivated by its duty to comply with the UN mandate. Nevertheless, diplomats fear that Switzerland could lose more than it gains from this gathering. Israel has condemned Switzerland for hosting the conference, labeling it as part of “legal warfare against Israel.”
The Swiss foreign ministry has taken a cautious approach to organizing the conference, attempting to minimize offense and controversy. The official title of the event, “Conference of High Contracting Parties to the Geneva Conventions,” is distinct from the label “Middle East Conference,” which some see as more obvious in its link to the conflict.
The timing of the gathering is sensitive, with a fragile ceasefire holding in Gaza but increasing violence in the West Bank. Diplomats fear that the conference could have a negative impact on the conflict. The outcome will be open to interpretation, and Switzerland has invited all 196 states that have signed the Geneva Convention to participate.
Despite its efforts to remain neutral, Switzerland’s decision to host this conference highlights the complexities of the Middle East conflict. The event aims to promote international humanitarian law but may inadvertently contribute to the ongoing diplomatic tensions between Israel and Palestine.
Source: https://www.swissinfo.ch/eng/foreign-affairs/the-international-conference-that-switzerland-doesnt-want-but-must-organise/88970600