●

The vast majority of the Jewish community in the Scotland regard Israel as part of their identity as Jews, regardless of their views on the country’s politics. The religion and history of Judaism and the Jewish people is inextricably linked to Israel and many Scottish Jews have family living there.

●

Events in the Middle East have an inevitable impact on diaspora communities, including Scotland. Every outbreak of violence in the Middle East leads to an increase in antisemitic incidents targeting Jewish individuals and communities here.

●

We call on Scottish politicians to recognise the damaging effect that the “Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions” (BDS) campaign has on Jewish people and community relations in Scotland. We expect to see constructive engagement between our Scottish political representatives and those of Israel in culture, arts, sports, business, and academia.

●

The Jewish community longs for peace between Israelis and their neighbours and overwhelmingly supports a two-state solution, with a secure Israel alongside a viable Palestinian state. Rather than import conflict, we want Scotland to export peace.