John Swinney calls for immediate ceasefire and two-state solution in Gaza
dailyrecord.co.ukScotland's First Minister has called for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, saying it is "at the heart" of reaching wider peace in the Middle East.
John Swinney was speaking on the first anniversary of the day Israeli forces began their ground invasion of Gaza, which came after Hamas launched its attack on Israel on October 7 last year.Mr Swinney said that international recognition of the sovereign state of Palestine, as part of a two-state solution, is also a "fundamental pillar" upon which lasting peace could be built.
He also called for the unconditional release of all hostages.According to the Gaza health ministry, more than 42,000 Palestinians have been killed in Gaza since the start of the Israel-Hamas war more than a year ago.
The ministry does not distinguish between fighters and civilians in its count.Mr Swinney said: "The ongoing humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza is now entering its second year.
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