Melike Pala
08 March 2026•Update: 08 March 2026
BRUSSELS
Swiss Defense Minister Martin Pfister criticized the United States and Israel for airstrikes against Iran, saying their actions, along with those of Tehran, violated international law, SonntagsZeitung newspaper reported on Sunday.
"The Americans and Israel have attacked Iran from the air. In doing so, they, like Iran, have violated international law," Pfister said, calling on the warring parties to cease violence and protect the civilian population.
He also warned that Europe could be drawn into the conflict, not only through conventional military engagement but through asymmetric warfare such as terrorist attacks.
"There is a risk of terrorist attacks in Switzerland. In addition, the war could trigger a wave of refugees that will also reach us," Pfister said.
While he does not believe Switzerland is directly threatened by Iranian long‑range missiles, Pfister said the possibility of collateral damage cannot be ruled out.
"We currently have nothing to defend against long-range attacks," he said.
He stressed the need for a comprehensive approach to security that goes beyond purely military preparedness, citing the importance of police and intelligence services.
The minister said that threat assessments had been underestimated in recent decades, adding: "Our perfected society with its prosperity is still a long way from the current conflicts... This war, as bad as it is, could also trigger a rethink in this country, which is urgently needed."
Tensions in the Middle East have soared since the US and Israel launched a large-scale attack on Iran on Feb. 28, killing more than 1,200 people to date, including Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, over 150 schoolgirls, and senior military officials.
Iran has retaliated with sweeping strikes targeting US bases, diplomatic facilities, and military personnel across the region, as well as multiple Israeli cities.
