Scotland's First Minister John Swinney attended an event at the Palestinian Mission in London on Monday, marking the UK Government's recognition of the Palestinian state. While he welcomed the decision, Swinney urged the Government to take additional steps beyond this initial move.
The First Minister called for the UK to impose sanctions on members of the Israeli Government, withdraw from the free trade deal with Israel, and end all military cooperation with the country. He also wants the UK to join South Africa's case against Israel at the International Court of Justice and commit to executing International Criminal Court arrest warrants.
Historic moment requires further action
Swinney described the recognition as significant but insufficient. "This is a historic moment for the people of Palestine which should have come long ago," he said. "I have been clear that the UK's recognition of the State of Palestine should have been unconditional, but this decision goes some way towards acknowledging the UK's solemn and historic responsibility towards all peoples of the region."
The First Minister emphasised that recognition was only the beginning. "While this announcement is welcome news, this is just the first step towards establishing the two-state solution," he stated. "I urge the UK Government to take further action to accelerate peace including continuing to call for an immediate ceasefire and the resumption of free flowing aid."
Swinney maintained his position that Hamas must play no role in a future Palestinian state. "I have consistently and unequivocally condemned the brutal terrorist attacks carried out by Hamas in October 2023 and I join the international community in demanding the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages," he said.
International criticism mounts
The Prime Minister has faced significant criticism for Sunday's recognition announcement. Families whose loved ones were taken hostage by Hamas after the October 7 attack wrote an open letter urging him not to recognise Palestine "until our loved ones are home and in our arms".
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu condemned the move as "absurd" and "simply a reward for terrorism". US President Donald Trump also criticised the decision, saying it was "rewarding Hamas".
The UK Government has been contacted for comment on Swinney's call for additional measures.
Sources used: "PA Media" Note: This article has been edited with the help of Artificial Intelligence.
