On New Year’s Eve, a devastating fire broke out at the renowned Swiss ski resort of Crans-Montana, leaving approximately 40 people dead and 115 injured. Global leaders have responded to the tragedy with deep sorrow and offered support in various forms.
Swiss Federal President Guy Parmelin described the fire at a bar in Crans-Montana as one of the most severe tragedies in Swiss history, emphasizing the shocking and unprecedented nature of the event. He mourned the loss of many lives, mostly young individuals, and the serious injuries sustained by around 100 people. Behind the numbers, there are vivid faces, names, families, and lives that have been abruptly or permanently altered.
Israeli President Isaac Herzog expressed willingness to provide assistance and support to Switzerland, offering the expertise and advanced capabilities of Israel in searching for victims, identifying them, and treating burn patients. He spoke with Swiss Federal President Parmelin directly to convey Israel’s readiness to help.
Slovakia’s Foreign Minister Juraj Blanar extended heartfelt condolences to the families and friends of the victims and expressed solidarity with Switzerland on social media platform X. He noted that some victims are foreign nationals, although their nationalities are yet to be confirmed. The Slovakian embassy in Bern has been in contact with local authorities, prepared to assist Slovakian citizens as needed.
In a show of solidarity, French President Macron also pledged support through social media platform X, assuring that France’s diplomatic and consular teams are closely monitoring developments and offering necessary aid to those affected by the tragedy. French hospitals stand ready to receive and care for the injured individuals.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz expressed deep sorrow over the tragic turn of events at Crans-Montana, where moments of joy have been overshadowed by grief. He conveyed heartfelt sympathy and solidarity with the affected individuals and their families, wishing the injured a swift and full recovery.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen reiterated the EU’s commitment to assisting victims through the EU Civil Protection Mechanism, coordinating with Swiss authorities to provide medical aid. She affirmed the EU’s full support for Switzerland in the aftermath of the tragic incident.
Ukrainian President Zelensky mourned every life lost in the fire, underscoring the importance of preventing such tragedies from recurring anywhere in the world. He offered condolences to all families who have lost loved ones and wished a speedy recovery to all those injured.
Several Arab countries, including Egypt, Oman, and Jordan, also released statements expressing support for the families of the victims and the Swiss government during this difficult time. The global outpouring of condolences and offers of assistance reflects a united front in the face of tragedy.
(Adapted from a report by Reuters)