Mr Robertson said the meeting was not an attempt to legitimatise the actions of the Israeli government in Gaza.
“The Scottish government has been consistent in our unequivocal condemnation of the atrocities we have witnessed in Gaza,” he said.
“The reality, however, is that this meeting has been taken by many to represent a normalisation of relations between the Israeli and Scottish governments.
“As such, it is clear that it would have been better to ensure that the meeting was strictly limited to the need for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and an end to the appalling loss of life in the region. I apologise for the fact that this did not happen.”
He said it would “not be appropriate to accept any invitation” for future meetings until “real progress has been made towards peace, unimpeded access to humanitarian assistance is provided and Israel co-operates fully with its international obligations on the investigation of genocide and war crimes”.
The apology follows remarks on the conflict from SNP MSP John Mason who posted on X that there was “no genocide” in Gaza.
Mr Mason was suspended from the party’s Holyrood group over his comments but has said he “completely” stands by his remarks.
He told BBC’s Good Morning Scotland programme that the situation in Gaza was “nothing like” previous examples of genocide.
William Turner is a seasoned U.K. correspondent with a deep understanding of domestic affairs. With a passion for British politics and culture, he provides insightful analysis and comprehensive coverage of events within the United Kingdom.
