Situation in Middle East ‘deeply concerning’, says Angus Robertson

The situation in the Middle East is “deeply concerning”, Angus Robertson has said. 

The external affairs minister said the Scottish Government has been in contact with the UK Government and is being updated on the situation as the conflict in the Middle East has escalated over the weekend. 

The Scottish Government has issued advice for individuals currently in the region and for family members. 

It comes after the US and Israel carried out “pre-emptive” strikes on Saturday against the Iranian government, which the two countries say is intent on developing nuclear weapons.  

Iran’s supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, was killed, and the attack prompted retaliatory strikes by Iran on Israel and other Middle Eastern nations.  

Robertson said: “The escalation of the situation in Iran and other countries in the Gulf region following the US and Israel’s strikes is deeply concerning. I know that will be particularly true for those in Scotland with loved ones living, working or travelling in the areas impacted. 

“Those with concern for family members in the affected areas, or those in the areas impacted, can seek consular support by contacting their closest British embassy, high commission or consulate, or contact the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) in the UK on +44 (0)20 7008 5000. Please also use the FCDO’s ‘Register your presence’ service on the FCDO website. 

“It is important to monitor official updates and follow any advice. The FCDO has asked British nationals in Bahrain, Israel, Palestine, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates to register their presence, which will help ensure they receive the latest updates. 

“The Scottish Government has been in contact with the UK Government over the weekend and is being updated on the situation. 

“As the first minister has said, the international community should now work together and at pace on a solution which focuses on de-escalation and diplomacy.”