Middle-east conflict: Information for Swiss citiziens in Israel

On Saturday morning, 7 October, the Palestinian Hamas attacked Israel. Switzerland condemns the attack and calls for an immediate end to the violence. Around 28,000 Swiss nationals and their families live in Israel. The FDFA and Swiss representations are informing the people on the ground and providing support where possible.

On Saturday morning, 7 October, the Palestinian Hamas attacked several targets in Israel with rockets launched from the Gaza Strip; many civilians are among the victims. Switzerland condemns the rocket fire and attacks on Israel, and calls for the immediate release of abducted persons.

Around 28,000 Swiss nationals and their families live in Israel. The FDFA is in contact with the Swiss citizens and supports them wherever possible. The FDFA reminds people to follow the instructions of the local authorities. Affected persons can also contact the following services:

• FDFA helpline (24 hours a day on +41 800 24 7 365 / 0 800 24 7 365 or by e-mail to helpline@eda.admin.ch)
• Embassy of Switzerland in Tel Aviv and Representative Office in Ramallah
• For travellers: Travel Admin App

Swiss representations in Israel remained open over the weekend, and the Department had also reinforced its teams and is monitoring the situation attentively. The FDFA is also reviewing the travel advice and updating it on an ongoing basis.

The Swiss Abroad in Israel are also networked in Swiss Clubs and associations. The Swiss Community Israel provides information on its website, and its president Raphael Steigrad has sent an information letter to its members. You can also find more than 120 Swiss Abroad in Israel on our community platform.

The Organisation of the Swiss Abroad, SwissCommunity, demands that all parties protect the civilian population and respect international humanitarian law.