Switzerland will officially implement a ban on Hamas and related groups beginning 15 May, as part of a new law aimed at blocking the Palestinian organisation’s presence and influence within Swiss borders.
The government confirmed the move today, signaling a firm stance against any activity linked to the group.
The decision follows parliamentary approval of the legislation in December. The new law gives Swiss authorities broader powers to take preventive actions such as imposing entry bans, deporting individuals, and shutting down financial channels that could support Hamas operations.
Officials say the primary goal is to stop Switzerland from being used as a base or financial hub by the group. The law will help authorities respond more effectively to suspected Hamas-linked activity by tightening legal options available to police and immigration services.
While Switzerland has long maintained a policy of neutrality, this law marks a shift in how it handles groups it considers to be tied to terrorism or violent resistance. The ban is also expected to help align Switzerland’s policies more closely with those of the European Union and other Western allies, many of which have already designated Hamas as a terrorist organisation.
Swiss authorities say the tools provided by the new law will improve national security and help prevent any form of support for the group’s operations, whether political, financial, or logistical.