Switzerland reaffirms support for ICC investigation into situation in Palestine

LONDON

Switzerland has reiterated its "unwavering support" for the International Criminal Court (ICC) as an independent and impartial judicial institution.

In a statement regarding the investigation by the ICC into the situation in Palestine, the Swiss Foreign Ministry on Monday voiced its support for the court as a state party to the Rome Statute, saying: "We remain committed to an international rules-based order."

The ICC, it said, "is an integral part of this order and a central institution in the fight against impunity and the pursuit of justice, which are essential components of sustainable peace, security and reconciliation."

The statement noted that the ICC has jurisdiction over the situation in Palestine and the prosecutors have been conducting an investigation into this situation since March 2021.

"This investigation covers conducts that may amount to Rome Statute crimes committed since June 13, 2014 in Gaza and the West Bank, including East Jerusalem."

Citing the prosecutors, it pointed out that the investigation extends to the escalation of hostilities and violence since and including the attacks that took place on Oct. 7.

"Switzerland will continue to fully support the ICC and its crucial work, in all situations falling within its jurisdiction," said the ministry, calling on all states to ensure "full cooperation" with the court.

Israel has launched relentless air and ground attacks in the Gaza Strip following a cross-border attack by Hamas on Oct. 7.

Authorities in Gaza said Tuesday that the death toll from ongoing Israeli attacks on the enclave since Oct. 7 has surged past 14,100, including 5,840 children and 3,920 women.

The Israeli death toll, meanwhile, is around 1,200, according to official figures.