The Scottish government, under First Minister John Swinney, has announced a suspension of new public funding and grants for arms companies whose products or services are supplied to Israel.

The decision, taken in early September 2025, was driven by credible evidence of genocide in Gaza and follows sustained political pressure from the Scottish Greens.


scotland boycott Israel


Details of the Decision


No new grants or public funding will go to arms firms tied to Israeli supply chains.

The move reflects Scotland’s stance that taxpayer money should not support companies profiting from war crimes.

The policy is a moral and political statement, aligning with global campaigns for boycotts, divestments, and sanctions (BDS).


Humanitarian Measures for Gaza

Alongside the funding suspension, the Scottish government pledged:


Medical support for children injured in Gaza.

£400,000 in funding for a deployable hospital to provide emergency healthcare in Gaza.


This demonstrates Scotland’s intent to shift from indirect support of violence to direct humanitarian assistance.


Contrast with the UK Government

The move has sparked comparisons with London’s response:


The UK central government has faced criticism for its cautious handling of arms trade with Israel.

Recently, the UK did bar Israeli officials from a major arms fair in London, but stopped short of suspending funding or licenses for arms firms.

Scotland’s decision marks a stronger moral stance, signaling internal divergence within the UK on foreign policy.


Broader Implications


The suspension underscores growing political pressure in Europe against companies tied to Israel’s military actions.

By continuing to back defense measures in Ukraine, Scotland shows that its policy is targeted against specific conflicts, not a blanket opposition to defense industries.

Analysts suggest the move could influence wider UK debates on arms exports and accountability.


FAQs

Q1: What action has Scotland taken against arms companies?
A1: Scotland has suspended all new public funding and grants for arms firms whose products are supplied to Israel.

Q2: Why did Scotland make this decision?
A2: The government cited credible evidence of genocide in Gaza and pressure to ensure public money does not support war crimes.

Q3: What humanitarian support is Scotland providing for Gaza?
A3: Medical support for injured children and £400,000 toward a deployable hospital.

Q4: How does this compare with the UK government’s stance?
A4: Scotland has taken a firmer stance, while the UK government has only restricted Israeli officials from attending an arms fair.

Q5: Does this affect Scotland’s support for other defense efforts?
A5: No. Scotland continues to support Ukraine’s defense, showing the policy is focused specifically on Israel’s actions in Gaza.