Eurotopics.net

In Switzerland's parliamentary elections, the national-conservative Swiss People's Party (SVP) has consolidated its position as the leading political party and secured another nine seats in the National Council. The Greens and the Green Liberals were the biggest losers, dropping eleven seats between them. The SVP used warnings about migration as its main campaign topic. In Switzerland, the strongest parties have governed together since 1959.

The attack on Israel by radical Islamic Hamas and the reaction of the Israeli military are prompting fears of a further escalation in the region. The EU is under pressure to take a clear stance. A look at Europe's commentaries reveals the challenges Brussels and the individual member states face.

Following Hamas's brutal terrorist attack, most press voices in Europe agree that as long as the radical Islamic group controls the Gaza Strip, peace between Israelis and Palestinians is impossible. However, defeating Hamas will be a difficult process and incur heavy civilian casualties. Commentators look at long-term scenarios.