Switzerland Stops U. S. Weapon Sales Amid Iran Conflict

The Swiss government has decided not to give permission for companies to send weapons to the United States while fighting continues in Iran. This move follows the country’s long‑standing rule that it stays neutral during international wars. Because of this policy, the authorities said they will not approve any military shipments to nations that are part of the current conflict with Iran. The announcement came after U. S. forces carried out air strikes on Iranian targets in late February. Since then, no new licenses have been issued for arms exports to the United States.Earlier this week, Switzerland also turned down two U. S. requests for flights over its airspace that were linked to the Iran war, but allowed three other flight plans, again citing neutrality. Switzerland had previously banned flights over its territory and halted weapons exports to countries involved in the 2003 Iraq war. Those restrictions were later lifted when the situation changed. In its statement, the Swiss government noted that it has not granted a single license for weapons exports to Israel in several years. A panel of experts will keep monitoring the situation and will evaluate whether further action is needed under neutrality law.