HUMZA Yousaf has welcomed an apology from Angus Robertson after he was criticised for meeting with Israel's deputy ambassador to the UK during her visit to Scotland.
Last week, Robertson met with Daniela Grudsky in Edinburgh in his role as External Affairs Secretary for the Scottish Government.
The meeting was not publicised until days after it occurred when the Israeli diplomat posted about it on her social media, sharing a picture of herself smiling alongside Robertson.
After some SNP members called for Robertson to be sacked from his cabinet post over the meeting, he issued an apology and said it would "not be appropriate to accept any invitation for a further meeting" with the Israeli government.
Former first minister Yousaf has welcomed the apology, saying it was clear "there can not be normal relations" with the Israeli government
In a statement posted to social media, Yousaf said:
"He has clearly listened and reflected on the anger and upset in relation to his meeting with the Israeli deputy ambassador, and apologised.
"Crucially, he has made it clear there can not be normal relations with the Govt of Israel.
🧵 An important statement from @AngusRobertson He has clearly listened and reflected on the anger and upset in relation to his meeting with the Israeli Deputy Ambassador, and apologised. Crucially, he has made it clear there can not be normal relations with the Govt of Israel. pic.twitter.com/SSrljoWzHa
— Humza Yousaf (@HumzaYousaf) August 19, 2024
"I have always supported normal diplomatic relations with countries, even (especially!) where differences exist.
"However, there must be limits. 40,000 killed, including children, infants and babies – this alone should preclude normal relations with the government of Israel.
"A reminder that ICC prosecutors are also seeking an arrest warrant for Israel's PM.
"The ICJ is investigating Israel for the crime of genocide.
"If international law is to be meaningful, then there must be consequences – including diplomatic – for those who breach it repeatedly.
"On Angus. I have worked with him, and known him as a friend for many years.
"He is unwavering in his support for a two-state solution, and supported the recognition of the Palestinian state for many years.
"He continues to be an asset when representing Scotland on the world stage."
It comes after SNP MSP John Mason – who also met with Grudsky – lost the whip over a series of posts to X/Twitter in which he claimed there was "no genocide" occurring in Gaza.
