Switzerland urges probes into reported abuses in Middle East

Switzerland is demanding independent investigations and accountability after reports of torture, sexual violence and attacks on civilians in the Middle East.

Switzerland's ambassador to the UN in Geneva, Thomas Gurber, pointed specifically to reports concerning Israel, the occupied Palestinian territory, Lebanon and Iran.

“Switzerland is troubled by alarming reports of torture and sexual violence, including in detention, as well as attacks against civilians,” Gurber said Tuesday at the 63rd session of the UN Human Rights Council.

He stressed that the reported abuses and incidents must be independently investigated.

“These allegations and incidents must be subject of independent investigations and lead to accountability,” he said.

Gurber urged all parties involved in conflicts in the region to comply immediately with their responsibilities under international law.