Scottish Minister Warned by Foreign Office Over Israel Incident

First Minister John Swinney has come under fire for freezing relations with Israel while continuing to engage with Palestinian organizations, raising concerns about the Scottish Government's approach to the Israel-Palestine conflict. Critics argue that this stance contradicts the government's advocacy for a two-state solution, as it appears to ignore one side of the ongoing conflict. The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office has expressed a desire for a more collaborative relationship with the Scottish National Party (SNP) ministers, signaling discontent with their current diplomatic strategy. The controversy intensified following a meeting between SNP external affairs secretary Angus Robertson and Israeli deputy ambassador Daniela Grudsky in August, which angered many within the SNP amid the escalating Israel-Hamas war. Robertson later acknowledged that he should have focused solely on advocating for a ceasefire in Gaza, clarifying that he did not intend to normalize relations with Israel. The Scottish Council of Jewish Communities cautioned the SNP against excluding Israel from discussions, emphasizing that a genuine two-state solution requires engagement with both parties involved. In a recent virtual meeting, Swinney spoke with Dr. Husam Zomlot, head of the Palestinian Mission to the UK, further highlighting the Scottish Government's focus on Palestinian issues. However, critics like Colin Cowan, who lost his brother to Hamas violence, accused the SNP of double standards and potential prejudice against Jewish people by not engaging with Israel. The SNP maintains that its policy calls for the release of hostages, an immediate ceasefire, and recognition of a viable Palestinian state.