Switzerland Blocks Arms Sales to U.S. Over Iran War
The New York Times • • nation
Key Points:
- Switzerland has blocked new arms sales to the United States, citing its strict neutrality policy regarding countries involved in the armed conflict with Iran, and will not authorize exports of war materiel to the U.S. during the conflict.
- The U.S. is Switzerland's second-largest market for arms, purchasing approximately $120 million worth of military goods in 2025, including products from SIG Sauer, a key small arms manufacturer with bases in Switzerland and Germany.
- No new export licenses to the U.S. have been issued since the conflict began on February 28, though previously granted licenses remain valid, and an interdepartmental body will regularly review arms sales under Swiss neutrality laws.
- Switzerland has not licensed arms exports to Israel or Iran
