Switzerland’s foreign minister has called for the violence in the Middle East to stop immediately and has offered his condolences to the families of the victims.

 Switzerland first expressed its concerns about the situation on Sunday, appealing for calm. A statementExternal link released by the Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA) on Wednesday evening reiterated its call on all parties to respect their obligations under international law, in particular international humanitarian law, and to protect the civilian population and infrastructure.

“Switzerland is convinced that only a two-state solution negotiated by both parties in accordance with international law and internationally agreed parameters, including UN Security Council resolutions, can lead to lasting peace between Israelis and Palestinians,” the statement continued.

“In this context, the FDFA reiterates its support for the preservation of the historical status quo on the Haram al-Sharif/Temple Mount in Jerusalem.”