The inexorable drumbeat of news coming from Palestine, particularly from the Gaza Strip, continues to hammer the consciences of the entire world. Images and stories of an unprecedented humanitarian crisis follow one another, painting a picture of suffering and desperation that directly challenges even neutral Switzerland. And it is precisely from Bellinzona, the beating heart of the Canton, that a strong and clear voice is now being raised, a direct appeal to the Federal Council so that our country takes a more decisive and courageous position in the face of violations of international humanitarian law.

Il Ticino State Council has not remained indifferent to the tragedy unfolding in Palestine. Aware of the gravity of the situation and of the responsibility that Switzerland, as guardian of the Geneva Conventions, holds at a global level, it has sent a formal letter to Bern. A significant gesture, which underlines the urgency of more incisive action by the Confederation.

The historical Swiss humanity

The Swiss humanitarian tradition, a pillar of our identity and even engraved in Article 54 of the Federal Constitution, requires – according to the letter – the country not to turn its back in the face of tragedies. The Ticino government believes that the efforts made by Switzerland to protect the population of Gaza must be significantly increased: the time has come for a change of pace. It is not just a question of solidarity, but of a precise moral and legal duty. Switzerland has a historic responsibility, that of being the depositary country of the Geneva Conventions, and this role requires it to act firmly to respect international law.

From Bellinzona, clear requests in favor of Palestine

The letter from the Ticino State Council to the Federal Council is peremptory and leaves no room for interpretation. The requests are clear and aim for immediate and concrete action:

  • Promoting lasting peace: A constant and diplomatic commitment is called for to foster a constructive dialogue that can lead to a stable and lasting peace in the Middle East.
  • Ensuring respect for humanitarian law: It is essential that Switzerland use all diplomatic means to urgently restore respect for international humanitarian law in all its forms.
  • Unequivocal condemnation: The Federal Council is urged to condemn clearly and unequivocally the extremely serious and repeated violations of international law and international humanitarian law committed in the Gaza Strip by the Israeli government. At the same time, the need for the immediate release of all Israeli hostages still held by Hamas is reiterated.
  • Access to Humanitarian Aid: Last but not least, the call to ensure the immediate distribution and unhindered access to humanitarian aid for the civilian population of Gaza. This must be done through recognized and customary channels, such as the ICRC and international organizations, avoiding any instrumentalization or politicization of aid, which is vital for the survival of millions of people in Palestine.

Ticino's appeal to the Federal Council must be a powerful reminder to the entire world: no country can remain silent in the face of such a tragedy; its international credibility and its very humanitarian identity depend on its ability to translate principles into concrete actions, now more than ever.