JOHN Swinney has called for “unity” after a terror attack at a synagogue in Manchester.
The First Minister urged communities in Scotland to “stand firm against those that seek to divide us”.
“Now more than ever, division and all forms of hatred – especially evil antisemitism – must be rejected,” he added.
It comes as the UK reels from the attack which took the lives of two men at Heaton Park synagogue on Thursday morning, with police put on high alert.
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood has also been criticised for rhetoric in which she branded pro-Palestine protesters who took to the streets on the same day as the attack "un-British".
The National understands that Swinney has today written privately to Jewish community leaders expressing sympathy and solidarity.
The flag from the main Scottish Government building will also be at half-mast on Friday.
“The horror of the violence inflicted upon the Jewish Community with the Heaton Park attack is utterly unimaginable. I cannot stress enough my sympathy with those families and their friends who have lost their loved ones, and my solidarity with the Jewish community in Scotland and across the whole of the United Kingdom,” Swinney said.
“I know just what a distressing time this is for our Jewish communities, with fears and worry over the consequences of Heaton Park playing on their mind. I can assure our Jewish community that we will do everything necessary to ensure their continued safety, and additional security and policing is in place around synagogues and Jewish community venues.”
He added: “When society is faced with unimaginable horror, we must take solace in the things that unite us. We must stand firm against those that seek to divide us. Now more than ever, division and all form of hatred – especially evil antisemitism – must be rejected and I urge communities across Scotland to stand firm against those that seek to divide our country.
“Scotland’s diversity and our inclusive outlook is one of our greatest strengths. It is a precious commodity which we must all work to cherish and maintain, especially at moments of strain.
"In this spirit, I take great pride in Drumlanrig Peace Accord, which was agreed in Scotland and marks a profound step forward in fostering mutual respect and understanding between Jewish and Muslim communities. Scotland stands ready to support efforts that build bridges, promote solidarity, and ensure that all our citizens can face challenges together in peace and unity."
