Swiss Police Ban 'Death to Zionism' Protest Planned in Basel on Zionism Anniversary

Swiss authorities have prohibited a planned demonstration in Basel scheduled for August 29, which was to mark the 129th anniversary of the First Zionist Congress held in the city. The protest, promoted under the slogan "Death to Zionism" and featuring imagery such as an Israeli tank marked with a red inverted triangle associated with Hamas propaganda, called for the destruction of Zionism from its birthplace. The police stated that the organizers did not apply for a permit and that the event, as declared, conflicted with fundamental rights due to explicit calls for violence, thus it could not be authorized.

The police emphasized the protection of freedom of expression and assembly, even for controversial political views, but drew the line at incitement to violence. Preparations are underway to prevent the protest from taking place in its proposed form, though specific operational details were withheld for security reasons. The authorities also highlighted the importance of the Jewish community in Basel feeling safe at all times.

The protest was linked to the group basel4palestine, which was identified by the Campaign Against Antisemitism (CAM) as promoting the event. The demonstration’s timing was significant, coinciding with the date when Theodor Herzl convened the First Zionist Congress in 1897, where the foundational "Basel Program" was adopted, and Herzl famously wrote, "In Basel, I founded the Jewish state."

In response to the planned protest, a criminal complaint was filed in Basel against unidentified organizers, accusing them of discrimination and incitement to hatred and violence. Over 350 individuals, including members of both chambers of the Swiss parliament, joined the complaint. No official statement has yet confirmed the opening of a criminal investigation. The police have not disclosed how they will respond if organizers or supporters attempt to gather despite the ban but have made clear that the protest will not be allowed as planned.