JOHN Swinney has written to the Palestinians who have arrived in Scotland to receive medical treatment.
In an open letter addressed to the children, families and students of Gaza arriving in the country, the First Minister extended his "heartfelt welcome" on behalf of the people of Scotland.
Earlier this week, the first two patients and their families arrived in Scotland from Gaza to receive treatment after being targeted by Israel.
The Scottish Government has committed to supporting the treatment of up to 20 children, with further arrivals expected in the coming weeks.
Swinney said Scotland "stands in solidarity" with Gaza as he pledged the Scottish Government would "continue to do everything in our power" to call for a ceasefire, an increase of humanitarian aid into Gaza and "an end to Israel's illegal occupation of Palestine".
It comes after the Scottish Parliament voted for an immediate boycott of Israel and companies complicit in the ongoing genocide in Gaza.
The First Minister wrote: "We have been horrified by the catastrophic situation that has unfolded in Gaza over the past two years, and no-one should have to endure the deep trauma and suffering that you and your loved ones have been exposed to.
"I want to assure you that the Scottish Government will continue to do everything in our power to call for a ceasefire and an increase in humanitarian aid for Gaza as well as bringing an end to Israel’s illegal occupation of Palestine. It is our view that only a two-state solution will bring the lasting peace that the people of Palestine deserve."
Swinney went on to say that "Scotland has a proud history of welcoming people from around the world", adding: "Although there will be many differences to get used to, I hope you will feel welcome here for as long as you choose to stay."
The First Minister continued: "Scotland is a country that believes in justice and equality, and you will see many signs of support for Palestine around Scotland.
"Our country stands in solidarity with you, and I hope this will make it easier for you to feel at home here."
At least 65,141 people have been killed by Israel in Gaza, with around two thirds believed to be women and children.
Unicef, the United Nations's children's charity, estimates that more than 50,000 children have been killed or injured in Gaza since October 2023.
The move to welcome Palestinians to Scotland is part of a cross-government taskforce in the UK, in partnership with the World Health Organisation (WHO).
The WHO works on the ground and plays a critical role in supporting medical evacuations from Gaza during the ongoing genocide.
Click here to read the full letter from John Swinney.
