THE Scottish government yesterday called for an immediate arms embargo against Israel and a United Nations-led investigation into its war crimes.

Scottish Palestine Solidarity Campaign (SPSC) welcomed the demands and said the call further isolated the Westminster coalition’s refusal to take a stand against Israel’s slaughter of civilians in Gaza.

The campaign group described the calls as “a significant stance to take against Israel after more than 1,800 Palestinian women, men and children have been massacred in Gaza.”

Holyrood also denied an Israeli claim that the Scottish government was searching for venues for shows by Israeli performers at Edinburgh Fringe.

Two shows by Israeli groups have been cancelled following protests.

“The tide is turning,” said SPSC spokesman Albie O’Neill.

“The decision by the Scottish government to call for an immediate arms embargo and a UN-led investigation into Israel’s war crimes is a massive step in the popular campaign to isolate Israel.”

But he called on the Scottish government to go further. 

“On behalf of the thousands who have protested over the last few weeks, we ask ministers to explain why they continue to oppose the Palestinian call for peaceful protest through boycott, divestment and sanctions against the state of Israel while developing trade and diplomatic links with the Israeli government,” he said.

“The UK government can no longer count on the support of its own ministers over Gaza and now the Scottish government has strengthened its stand against Israel in support of the people of Gaza.”