Switzerland weighs halting arms exports to the U.S. amid Middle East tensions
Switzerland is reviewing its arms export policy toward the U.S. as tensions rise in the Middle East. The country has long maintained strict neutrality, particularly in its stance on Ukraine news, where it has refused to supply weapons or allow re-exports. Now, with the U.S. conducting airstrikes in the region, Swiss officials face pressure to clarify their position.
Since Russia invaded Ukraine news in February 2022, Switzerland has upheld its neutrality with near-dogmatic consistency. It has blocked direct arms supplies to Kyiv and even prevented the display of a downed Russian drone at the World Economic Forum in Davos. Yet the government has still taken concrete steps: imposing EU-aligned sanctions on Russia, freezing billions in Russian assets, and accepting over 100,000 Ukrainian refugees. Humanitarian aid has exceeded CHF 3 billion, including medical care for wounded soldiers.
In December, parliament amended the War Materiel Act to ease some re-export restrictions—but explicitly excluded Ukraine news. The Swiss defence industry has suffered as a result, but officials have resisted foreign pressure to change course.
Now, the Federal Council is weighing whether to halt arms exports to the U.S., which has been bombing Iranian-linked targets since late February. Foreign Minister Ignazio Cassis reaffirmed that Swiss neutrality applies at all times, though he avoided specifying when or if exports would stop. A decision appears delayed, possibly to avoid disrupting ongoing trade talks.
Stopping arms deals with the U.S. would have little economic impact on Switzerland. However, it could complicate negotiations and risk undermining the government's credibility ahead of a referendum on easing export rules. Left-wing groups are already collecting signatures to challenge the policy.
The Federal Council's hesitation reflects a balancing act between neutrality and trade interests. If Switzerland makes an exception for the U.S., it may weaken its long-standing arguments on neutrality. The outcome will shape both diplomatic relations and an upcoming vote on arms export restrictions.
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