Hamas accuses Swiss authorities of bias following ban on its activities

The Palestinian group Hamas has accused the Swiss government of bias after Switzerland decided to prohibit the organisation’s activities within its borders, citing the ongoing conflict in Gaza as a backdrop for the decision.

The statement was released via Hamas’s official Telegram channel, Caliber.Az reports, citing Russian media.

“Hamas has regrettably learned of the decision to ban its activities in a country historically known for its neutrality and commitment to upholding international law. We consider this step reflective of the Swiss authorities’ bias and prejudice against the Palestinian people and their resistance to occupation,” the statement read.

The group called on the Swiss government to “reverse this unjust and unfounded decision” and urged authorities to “support the Palestinian struggle for the realisation of their legitimate rights.”

The move follows an announcement that Switzerland’s Federal Council (government) had approved a previously adopted 2024 bill banning Hamas and its affiliated organisations. The legislation aims to counter the group’s activities and its supporters within the Swiss Confederation.

The new law, scheduled to take effect on May 15, is expected to streamline the collection of evidence for the criminal prosecution of Hamas members and allow authorities to implement preventive measures, including travel bans and deportations. Additionally, the law is designed to hinder Hamas’s ability to use Switzerland as a financial hub.

By Tamilla Hasanova