Swiss defence minister says US and Israel violated international law in strikes on Iran
Mar 8th 2026
Defence Minister Martin Pfister criticised belligerent states over recent strikes on Iran, warned Europe could be drawn into the war, and called for broader Swiss security measures and upgraded defence capabilities.
- Pfister told SonntagsZeitung that American and Israeli air attacks on Iran amounted to violations of international law, similar to Iran’s actions.
- He warned Europe could be drawn into the conflict and highlighted the risk of asymmetric attacks and terrorism affecting Switzerland.
- Pfister said a refugee wave could reach Switzerland and that direct long-range missile strikes on Switzerland are unlikely but collateral damage cannot be ruled out.
- He urged a comprehensive security approach beyond the army, naming police and intelligence services as key and saying more resources will be needed.
- Pfister flagged a gap in defence against long-range attacks while noting new drone and robotics centres at the Federal Armaments Office and army and a task force linking the military with science and industry.