Swiss gov’t approves draft law to ban Hamas

The Swiss government today approved a draft law to ban Hamas, which it considers to be a “terrorist organisation”, and said anyone who violates the ban will be punished with a prison sentence or fine, Reuters reports.

Under the new law, which must go to parliament, Hamas and successor groups as well as organisations and groups that act on behalf of or in the name of Hamas will be banned.

The Swiss Federation of Jewish Communities (SIG) and the Platform of Liberal Jews in Switzerland (PLJS) have long sought to have Hamas designated a “terror group” in Switzerland.

Critics have warned that such a move calls into question Switzerland’s position as a neutral country, with no formal alliances with other states, and thus its ability to operate as a mediator in talks.

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