JEWISH and Muslim faith leaders in Scotland have issued a joint statement of solidarity alongside the First Minister.
Humza Yousaf joined senior religious representatives in Scotland to denounce all forms of hate crime, bigotry and xenophobia as tensions run high following the outbreak of war between Israel and Hamas in Gaza.
Jewish and Muslim communities have vowed to keep working together to foster greater goodwill across the country.
The statement read: “We express today our mutual respect and understanding, recognising our common humanity, and with love and compassion, knowing that our hearts are full of pain.
“We also acknowledge the suffering caused to innocent life as a result of recent events and wholeheartedly pray for the full recovery of the many injured and for those who have lost loved ones.
“In times of crisis, it is important for our faith communities, and all communities in Scotland, to reaffirm our relationships and maintain our continuing dialogue.
“We are steadfast in our commitment against all forms of hate crime, bigotry and xenophobia and we are proud of the strong inter-faith tradition in Scotland.
“We stand together in solidarity to reassure our communities of that continuing commitment.
“We will continue to work together to foster community cohesion and goodwill across Scotland, so that everyone can live in safety.
“We are proud of our close and strong working relationships, built up over many years, and which allows us the ability to work with confidence and trust.”
It comes after a senior rabbi in Glasgow, Moshae Rubin, said Jewish communities in Scotland felt “fear” following the Hamas attack in Israel in which Glasgow-born Bernard Cowan was killed.
He said: “Unfortunately every time there is a flare up in Israel, there is always worry for people’s wellbeing over here.
“People are sort of, in a way, looking over their shoulders. It creates a fear.”
Large protests condemning Israel’s attacks on civilians in Gaza took place across Scotland over the weekend.
Humza Yousaf’s parents-in-law are still trapped in Gaza and are reportedly down to their last supplies of water.
In an emotional statement to the Scottish Parliament, he reiterated his call for an immediate ceasefire.
