The city’s FDP was considering taking action against the payment as soon as the city council’s decision had been made, as parliamentary group leader Michael Schmid said shortly before. He called it “scandalous” that the payment had already been made.
Representatives of the SVP attacked the city council in personal statements over the payment, which was based on an initiative by parliament. This should take action against anti-Semitism in Zurich and not “do foreign policy”. It was “surreal that the money went directly into Hamas’ pockets,” said Stefan Urech.
“Slap in the face” by the mayor
Mauch emphasized that the city council was providing humanitarian aid. UNRWA is the backbone of this aid in Gaza. She hopes for an end to the violence soon. Because of the donation to UNRWA, she received a lot of letters criticizing her. But also many from the Jewish community who were of the opinion that the aid would reach the needy population in this way.
The discussion was started by Ronny Siev (GLP), who called the payment a “slap in the face” by the mayor. The money goes to people who demand the extermination of the Jews. Jews are also attacked and discriminated against in Zurich.
The city council decided last week to support UNRWA with 380,000 francs. The aid organizations Médecins du Monde and Terre des Hommes will receive 100,000 francs.
In what ways can Zurich balance its humanitarian commitments to organizations like UNRWA while addressing the concerns and criticisms raised by parties such as the Swiss People’s Party regarding alleged connections to Hamas?
Welcome to World Today News, where we bring you the latest in international affairs. Today, we have two esteemed guests joining us to discuss the controversy surrounding Zurich’s decision to donate funds to UNRWA, an organization that has been criticized for allegedly aiding Hamas – a political party labeled as terrorist by some. Joining us first is Mr. Michael Schmid, the parliamentary group leader of the Social Democratic Party in Zurich. And with us is also Mr. Stefan Urech, a representative from the Swiss People’s Party.
Mr. Schmid, we would like to begin with your thoughts on the city’s FDP’s plan to take legal action against the payment. Can you explain the reasoning behind this move and what specific concerns you have about the use of these funds?
Secondly, Mr. Urech, the SVP has been very outspoken in its criticism of the city council’s decision to donate to UNRWA. Can you elaborate on these criticisms and why you believe that supporting UNRWA is not an appropriate use of these funds? Additionally, how do you respond to the accusation that not supporting UNRWA amounts to a failure in humanitarian efforts?
Lastly, Mayor Mauch has defended the decision to donate, citing humanitarian reasons and the importance of reaching those in need, regardless of their political affiliations. She also mentioned receiving both praise and criticism from the Jewish community. Can you comment on the implications of this decision on Zurich’s relationship with the Jewish community and how it plans to address ongoing antisemitism issues in the city?
We appreciate your insights and look forward to hearing from you.
