Glasgow held a vigil in memory of the victims of Hamas‘ attacks on Israel ahead of the anniversary of the most recent Middle East conflict.
Hundreds of people gathered on the steps of Kelvingrove Gallery to pay tribute to the victims of the 7th October attacks and demand the immediate release the hostages.
This weekend, a number of events were held in various parts of the country to mark the anniversary since the outbreak of the current conflict.
On Saturday, thousands of pro-Palestinian demonstrators gathered in Edinburgh, Inverness, and Aberdeen to call for an immediate cessation of hostilities in Gaza and to draw attention to the human costs Israel’s response.
Hamas gunmen began the war when they attacked Israel on 7th October last year. They killed about 1,200 people, and took 251 hostages. 97 hostages are still unaccounted for.
Israel responded by launching a military operation in Gaza, which has killed at least 41.825 people according to the Hamas health ministry.
In recent weeks, violence has spread across Lebanon.
The event was attended by members of the Scottish Jewish community and speakers from the Glasgow Friends of Israel group.
The sister of Bernard Cowan who was murdered by Hamas gunmen during the 7th October attack in Southern Israel was also present at the vigil.
Attendees held red heart-shaped balloons and waved banners that featured the faces of hostages.
They sang songs such as ‘Bring them Home’ from Les Miserables.
Sammy Stein, one of the vigil organizers, told BBC Scotland News that the event was “crucial”, as it highlighted the fact that “there are two sides to every story”.
He said: “When this event occurred a year ago, the news was about the terrible atrocities which happened in Israel. Then after about a weeks time people began to forget what happened on 7th October.”
Mr Stein continued, “Through the past year, the hostages were completely forgotten. It’s important that people remember they are still in captivity. Many of them are not alive.
“What we’re doing here is a Vigil.” It’s quiet, respectful and for remembrance.
“The event that we are holding today is not only for the Jewish Community.” People from all walks of the life and all religions are here today, which shows how much support there is in Glasgow.
Phyllis Segal, from Glasgow, also attended the vigil. She told BBC Scotland News, “I find it heartbreaking that we have been a year and are not any further along.
“It’s hard to believe that these young men, women and children have been hidden in tunnels all year.
“I am very upset by it all. We all are brothers and sisters. When someone asked us if we had family in Israel, we replied “yes, millions.”
The first minister has called for a ceasefire ahead of the first anniversary, which is on Monday.
John Swinney said, “The strength and focus of world leaders should be focused on a ceasefire immediately in the Middle East. We know that the core of this situation is a need for a ceasefire immediately in Gaza.
“A lasting Gaza ceasefire, which includes the release of all hostages, and a two state solution, including the full international recognition and acceptance of a sovereign Palestinian State, is crucial to ending conflict in the region. It is the foundation for long-term peace in the Middle East.”
“We must also put an end to all weapons sales that continue causing civilian deaths.”
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