THE leaders of every major Scottish party have endorsed The National’s new fundraiser on behalf of Medical Aid for Palestinians (MAP).
A year ago, we launched a fundraiser months into Israel’s brutal war on Gaza – raising over £130,000. While the ceasefire has brought an end to the relentless bombing, the need for humanitarian aid is even more pressing.
Gaza’s healthcare system is barely surviving. And according to the British Red Cross, the collapsed health system and its consequences could kill more people than the conflict itself – with only 16 of Gaza's 36 hospitals operational and just 1822 hospital beds available according to the WHO.
The National is again holding a fundraiser in conjunction with Medical Aid for Palestinians in an effort to help in any way we can.
All money goes directly to this important charity, which is on the ground providing urgently needed medical aid and mental health support in Gaza, the West Bank, East Jerusalem, and Lebanon.
Every major Scottish party leader has endorsed the fundraiser, calling on those who can to donate (click banner above).
First Minister John Swinney (below) said he was “very pleased” to support the campaign.
“We've all seen the terrible suffering in Gaza, with over 40,000 people losing their lives and hundreds of thousands of people suffering as a consequence of the conflict,” he said.
“The National’s campaign last year to raise money for Medical Aid for Palestinians raised over £130,000 and that was a huge contribution to the work of the organization and to support people who are suffering in Gaza.”
The SNP leader added: “I appreciate that times are tough for people, but I would ask everyone to contribute as much as you possibly can do to make sure that we can raise funds to support Medical Aid for Palestinians and to support people who are suffering in Gaza.”
Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar (below), meanwhile, said that the suffering that the people of Gaza have endured for almost a year and a half has been “devastating”.
“Lives have been torn apart by this conflict and thousands have been left as refugees,” he said.
“That’s why it is so important to do what we can to help those in need in Gaza. I have seen first hand the lifesaving work that MAP does in Gaza.
“Please consider donating to Medical Aid for Palestinians as they continue their lifesaving work to help the victims of this bloody conflict.”
Scottish Greens co-leader Lorna Slater said: “The National has led the way in their coverage of the crisis in Gaza and the UK’s role in it. They have asked big questions and exposed vital stories while providing real support and solidarity for Palestinians.
“The situation is urgent, and this fundraiser will provide real and urgent medical care for people who are being forced to endure one of the worst humanitarian crises in the world.
She added: “MAP is doing vital work and this money will go a long way to supporting it. Last year National readers raised 130k to support their work, and I hope this year’s fundraiser will build on that.
“I look forward to a day when Palestinians are free and fundraisers like this are no longer necessary. In the meantime I encourage everyone to give what they can and to support this crucial campaign.”
Scottish Conservative leader Russell Findlay (above) also gave his backing, saying: “While it’s vital that every effort is made to release the remaining hostages seized by Hamas terrorists, the provision of medical aid to those injured is of critical importance.
“Neighbouring countries and charitable donations from the West will all have a part to play in providing help to those in need.”
Alex Cole-Hamilton, the leader of the Scottish Lib Dems, said: "I would like to encourage everyone to support this fundraiser for Medical Aid for Palestinians.
"Like so many Scots, I have been heartbroken by the scenes from Gaza. For hundreds of thousands of people, the death and destruction will have changed their lives forever.
"A two-state solution feels an awful long way away but we must hope that both sides can be persuaded to rejoin the path to peace, so that fundraisers like this are no longer a necessity"
Alba Party acting leader Kenny MacAskill said: “A genocide is being perpetrated in Gaza. Common humanity, not just the clear needs, demands that we give what we can. Any support that can be given to this appeal will help alleviate the suffering. The world cannot be silent and efforts such as this are vital.”
Click the red banner above to head to the donation page or use the following link: medpal.donorsupport.co/page/TheNational
