Sign in Subscribe
United Nations

Israel Must Allow Aid into Gaza, Says Scotland's First Minister

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Scotland's First Minister, John Swinney, has called on Israel to urgently allow aid into Gaza, citing the "sickening" situation of humanitarian agencies being blocked from delivering aid to those in need. Swinney made the statement following a meeting with the United Nations Relief and Works Agency's (UNRWA) Europe manager, Marc people Lassouaoui. The First Minister stated that more than 56,000 people have been killed in Gaza and many more are being left to starve due to Israel's blockade of humanitarian aid. He urged the international community to demand that Israel follow international law and allow 400 established humanitarian agencies to deliver vital aid to those who need it most.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Israeli government has blocked humanitarian aid from reaching Gaza, leaving more than 56,000 people dead and many more at risk of starvation.
  • Over 400 people have been shot near aid distribution points since the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation started operations.
  • The Scottish Government stands with more than 70 countries in calling for Israel to allow humanitarian aid into Gaza.
  • The First Minister, John Swinney, has called for an immediate and sustainable ceasefire by all parties in Gaza, along with the unconditional release of hostages.
  • The expansion of settlements in the West Bank and the accompanying violence are completely unacceptable.
  • A two-state solution is necessary to bring lasting peace between Palestinians and Israelis.

Statistics:

  • Over 56,000 people have been killed in Gaza.
  • More than 400 people have been shot near aid distribution points.
  • The Gaza Humanitarian Foundation has reported that starving people are being killed when they try to collect food.
  • UNRWA has brought in an average of 500 to 600 trucks of food and other basic supplies every day during the ceasefire.
  • The number of trucks of food and supplies reaching Gaza has "trickled" significantly since the ceasefire.

Sources:

  • John Swinney, Scotland's First Minister
  • Marc people Lassouaoui, UNRWA Europe manager
  • Angus Robertson, Scotland's External Affairs Secretary

Read more