Switzerland to Implement Full Ban on Hamas and Affiliates Starting May 15

Report By Safarti Tarjuman International Desk

The Swiss government has confirmed that a comprehensive ban on the Palestinian group Hamas and its affiliated entities will take effect on May 15, reinforcing its stance against extremist activities within national borders.

The measure follows parliamentary approval in December 2024, in response to the October 2023 Hamas assault on Israel, which left 1,200 people dead and over 250 hostages taken, according to Israeli reports. The attack ignited a devastating conflict in Gaza, where more than 52,000 Palestinians have reportedly died during Israel’s ongoing military operations.

The new Swiss law gives authorities broader legal powers to deport foreign nationals suspected of supporting Hamas and to restrict the movement of individuals associated with the group, according to an official statement. The legislation also targets financial infrastructure that Hamas can exploit, effectively blocking fundraising or logistical support activities on Swiss soil.

“The law equips law enforcement with tools to prevent any form of activity or endorsement of Hamas within Switzerland,” the federal government stated. The policy is aimed at preventing the group from exploiting Switzerland’s neutrality or financial system for covert operations or funding channels.

Security experts say the ban aligns Switzerland with international counterterrorism frameworks upheld by the European Union and United States, both of which have long designated Hamas as a terrorist organization.

The new regulations allow for preventive police action, including visa denial, residence bans, and financial asset monitoring, ensuring that Switzerland cannot be used as a refuge or support hub for proscribed organizations.

As regional tensions remain high, Swiss officials reaffirmed their commitment to combating extremist threats while upholding human rights and international law.