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Gaza flotilla
01/06/2010
Minister for External Affairs Fiona Hyslop this morning had a helpful discussion with Alistair Burt, Foreign and Commonwealth Office Minister for the Middle East regarding the interception of the flotilla of ships containing humanitarian aid for Gaza.
Following that conversation, Ms Hyslop said:
"The Scottish Government adds its voice to the wider international community and condemns the actions taken by the Israeli defence force. We fully support the UN Security Council's recommendation for an impartial inquiry.
"The use of violence against a humanitarian convoy carrying medicine and other aid is being spoken out against right across the world. The blockade of Gaza is causing untold suffering to ordinary Palestinians and must be brought to an end.
"My primary concern is for the safety of all that were on board, particularly the well-being of Scots involved. The Israeli Government must provide immediate reassurance of their current situation and wellbeing.
"This morning I had a helpful telephone conversation with Alistair Burt, Minister for the Middle East at the Foreign and Commonwealth Office, and impressed upon him our concerns about the situation and discussed the UK Government response. We agreed that our prime concern is to clarify the whereabouts and safety of all UK nationals including the Scots affected and Mr Burt has committed to keeping the Scottish Government fully informed as and when information is available.
"On behalf of the Scottish Government I wish to express our deep sadness at the news of the loss of life on the humanitarian flotilla going to Gaza."