Shetland joins global campaign of boycotts against genocidal regime
Shetland councillors have backed plans by Green councillor Alex Armitage to implement a financial boycott of Israel.
The motion condemned the genocide inflicted against Gaza, expressed solidarity with Palestinians and called on Shetland Islands Council to investigate all financial holdings in companies linked to the Israeli government and present a plan to end them.
Last month, the Scottish Parliament voted to support calls made by Green MSPs to end support for companies arming Israel’s genocide in Gaza and to support actions against companies complicit in the illegal settlements.
Green councillors in Edinburgh successfully introduced a similar motion that was brought by Cllr Ben Parker.
Cllr Alex Armitage, who introduced the motion said:
“The genocide perpetrated by Israel is one of the most sickening abuses of human rights of my lifetime, and we should all take a stand against it.
“Human rights are universal. If we disregard the rights of Palestinians, we diminish our own rights and weaken the foundations of our society.
“The UN Commission’s finding of genocide is a call to action for everyone, everywhere. When so many people in positions of power remain silent, I’m glad my community is taking action in passing this motion today.”
Scottish Green MSP for Highlands and Islands, Ariane Burgess said:
“This is a powerful and important move by Cllr Armitage. It is a clear and practical expression of solidarity with people who are being forced to live under the most horrific conditions.
“Israeli forces have inflicted a brutal humanitarian catastrophe on the people of Gaza. Every level of government in Scotland and beyond should be taking what action they can to stop it, and I am proud that Shetland is leading the way.
“The Scottish Government backed Green calls for Boycott, Divestment & Sanctions against Israel. Now it has to turn those words into actions and to work with our councils as they try to implement it."
Text of motion from Cllr Alex Armitage
Shetland Islands Council notes the recent finding by the United Nations independent international commission that Israel is committing genocide against Palestinians in the Gaza Strip.
Shetland Islands Council instructs the director of finance to investigate the councils financial holdings in companies linked to the Israeli government and report back to a subsequent meeting with a proposal as to how SIC can divest from these assets.