Switzerland has announced a halt to new approvals for war materiel exports to countries involved in the conflict with Iran, after the Swiss Federal Council reviewed neutrality obligations on 20 March.
The government stated that “the export of war materiel to countries involved in the international armed conflict with Iran cannot be authorised for the duration of the conflict.”
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The council said exports to the United States are currently barred because it is engaged in the conflict, citing legal grounds under its War Materiel Act.
It added that no new licences have been issued since the escalation on 28 February, while “no definitive licences” have been granted to Israel or Iran “for a number of years.”
Existing licences not directly linked to the war will remain in use, though authorities stressed they will be monitored.
“Existing licences have been determined to be of no relevance to the war at present,” the statement noted, adding they can continue but are subject to review.
An interdepartmental expert group will now “regularly review” exports, including dual use and other goods, to ensure compliance with neutrality law.
Officials also confirmed a “restrictive approach is already in place” regarding Israel, as scrutiny intensifies over Switzerland’s trade position during the conflict.
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