JOHN Swinney will outline actions the Scottish Government will take to “support the people of Gaza” later this week.
The First Minister will deliver a statement to MSPs at Holyrood on Wednesday, following a Cabinet meeting to discuss the actions available.
Israel is credibly accused of committing genocide in Gaza by leading rights organisations including Amnesty International and the Israel-based B’Tselem.
Swinney has also labelled Israel’s actions as genocide, as has Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar.
As The National previously reported, the Scottish Government has said it will consider a state boycott of Israel.
On Monday, the SNP leader said: “As each day passes the crisis for the people of Gaza grows ever more terrifying. More than 63,000 people have died from bullets, bombs and starvation. Yet Israel has ignored all international calls for a ceasefire or to allow unimpeded humanitarian aid to enter Gaza.
“The Scottish Government has repeatedly called for an immediate and sustainable ceasefire, the unconditional release of all hostages and an urgent influx of humanitarian aid to Gaza. We will continue to press the UK Government to recognise a sovereign Palestinian state, as part of a two-state solution to secure lasting peace in the region.
“I continue to share the concerns of other governments and international leaders that actions of Israel in Gaza constitute genocide and we’ve called for an urgent response. But we cannot sit back and watch the horror unfold while we wait for action. Tomorrow I will meet with my Cabinet and we will discuss a range of measures we can take to support the people of Gaza.
“I will update Parliament on Wednesday afternoon with the actions we are taking to show our solidarity with the Gazan people and to help end this barbaric conflict.
“Today I met with Dr Husam Zomlot, Head of Palestinian Mission, to show Scotland’s solidarity with the Palestinian people, and also members of the Jewish Community, including the Chief Rabbi of Scotland, to reassure them of this government’s steadfast opposition to antisemitism and reaffirm their valued contribution to Scotland’s civic society.”
