Humza Yousaf, the Scottish First Minister, voiced his criticism of the United Kingdom’s decision to abstain from a crucial UN resolution demanding an urgent ceasefire between Israel and Hamas.
Yousaf revealed his personal concern, stating that he has been unable to reach his in-laws in Gaza due to disrupted communication caused by the ongoing Israeli bombardment.
Taking to X/Twitter on Saturday, Yousaf expressed gratitude for the well-wishes but disclosed the distressing news about his inability to contact his wife’s parents. He wrote, “Thank you for your good wishes, I’m afraid we have not heard from my in-laws. My concern is for all the innocent people suffering for a crime they did not commit. If you did not vote for peace, while children are dying, then I do not know how you sleep at night.”
The United Nations General Assembly passed a resolution on Friday, urging an “immediate, durable, and sustained humanitarian truce” between Israeli forces and Hamas militants.
The resolution received overwhelming support, with 120 votes in favor, 14 against, and 45 abstentions from the 193-member assembly.
Notably, the UK chose to abstain, drawing criticism as other nations, including Ireland and Spain, backed the call for a ceasefire.
The First Minister’s personal connection to the situation in Gaza adds a poignant dimension to the ongoing international debate on the conflict.