Scotland’s First Minister, Humza Yousaf, has expressed concern about his wife’s parents who are stranded in Gaza, as he has unequivocally denounced Hamas’ attacks on Israel. The Scottish politician stated that his in-laws were visiting sick loved ones and now have no way to get out of Gaza. Although the Israelis have urged them to leave, the Foreign Office cannot guarantee their safety. Mr Yousaf emphasized his and his wife’s anxiety that they might not survive the violence.
Mr Yousaf openly censured Hamas, deeming their actions “unjustifiable.” He mentioned he felt the Scottish government was firm in its position of condemnation and refused to equivocate. Sadly, innocent people on both sides are suffering; thus, he condemned the loss of lives on either side, emphasizing that all lives matter. The situation has left many Jewish families in Scotland concerned about their loved ones’ welfare. According to the BBC, more than ten British citizens are feared either dead or missing in Israel following Hamas’ attack, while Bernard Cowan from Glasgow was identified by family members on social media as a victim.
Elizabeth and Maged El-Nakla, Mr Yousaf’s in-laws, were visiting an elderly relative when the Hamas attack transpired; regrettably, the Israeli authorities urged all in Gaza to leave, warning they were about to launch an assault that would devastate the area. With nowhere to go, Mr Yousaf’s in-laws and other Gazans are caught in the crossfire, facing a humanitarian crisis that could worsen. Since Saturday, Israel has prohibited all supplies from entering Gaza, including food and medicine. Gaza’s inhabitants were already suffering from food insecurity, and now they are also experiencing water shortages, lack electricity and internet access. Mr Yousaf’s brother-in-law is also in Gaza with his young children, including a two-month-old infant, and only has supplies for the next two days.
Mr Yousaf stressed that his in-laws are innocent civilians without any affiliation with Hamas, demanding that officials help Gazans who are at risk of collective punishment. He added that the only way to end the violence and conflict in Israel and Palestine is via a two-state resolution, which would lead to a long-lasting peace process. Even though the Scottish government is not flying Israel or Palestine flags from its buildings, Mr Yousaf proclaimed his readiness to defend both Jewish and Muslim communities against hatred and violence. He concluded that he would unequivocally call Hamas gunmen terrorists.
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