John Swinney has described Israel’s actions in Gaza as a “genocide” for the first time, becoming the second leader of a UK nation to use the term. The Scottish first minister made the remarks at an Edinburgh fringe event, which was disrupted by pro-Palestinian protesters.
Speaking to journalists after the event, Swinney said: “It’s quite clear that there is a genocide in Palestine – it can’t be disputed. I have seen reports of terrible atrocities which have the character of being genocide.” Sinn Féin’s Michelle O’Neill previously used the term in July.
Israel has repeatedly denied carrying out a genocide, stating the war in Gaza is one of self-defence following Hamas attacks on 7 October 2023 that killed 1,200 people and took over 250 hostages. More than 1,350 Palestinians queueing for aid have been killed by Israeli troops since May, according to UN data.
Swinney’s comments follow pressure from within the Scottish National Party, including from Stephen Flynn, who urged the UK government to call it a genocide. The Scottish government has faced criticism for funding apprenticeships at firms that build weapons, but Swinney insisted strict assessments are applied to ensure public money supports diversification.
