Angus Robertson Defends Controversial Israel Meeting

Angus Robertson, Scotland's External Affairs Secretary, has faced intense backlash from SNP members after meeting with Israel's deputy ambassador, Daniela Grudsky, sparking accusations of potentially normalizing relations with Israel amid ongoing conflicts in Gaza. Robertson defended the meeting as necessary to communicate the Scottish Government's opposition to the violence, yet he later apologized for not keeping the discussion strictly focused on a ceasefire. Despite criticism, including calls for his resignation from within his party, he has stated he will not step down, emphasizing the importance of diplomatic dialogue. The Scottish Government has since suspended further meetings with Israel pending progress in peace negotiations. Robertson acknowledged that the meeting included discussions on non-war-related topics such as energy and tourism, which he deemed inappropriate given the current context. Former first minister Humza Yousaf accepted Robertson's apology but noted the unrest within the party regarding the meeting.