Sturgeon warns of ‘horrific consequences’ of anti-Semitism after US shooting

Nicola Sturgeon has warned of the “horrific consequences” of anti-Semitism in the wake of a mass shooting at at US synagogue.

The First Minister, who is due to visit Auschwitz with a group of schoolchildren this week, said it was “more important than ever” that the current generation learn about the Holocaust.

She spoke out on Twitter after Robert Bowers killed eight men and three women inside the Tree of Life Synagogue in Pittsburgh on Saturday before being shot by police.

He told officers that Jews were committing genocide and that he wanted them all to die, according to a charging document.

Ms Sturgeon tweeted: “Later this week, I’ll accompany @HolocaustUK and a group of Scottish school pupils on a visit to Auschwitz. As antisemitism rears its head again – often, as in USA yesterday, with horrific consequences – it is more important than ever that the next generation learns and remembers.”

Meanwhile, Scottish Justice Secretary Humza Yousaf spoke about the “huge contribution” that the Jewish community makes to the country.

Mr Yousaf spoke to Jewish people from Scotland at The Gathering event in Edinburgh on Sunday, telling them the thoughts and prayers of the people of Scotland were with all those affected by the “despicable” and “appalling” events in Pittsburgh.

He said: “This event presents an ideal opportunity to reflect on the diversity of Scotland and the important role our faith communities play in supporting public cohesion.

“On behalf of the Scottish Government, I pay tribute to the huge contribution which Jewish communities make to our society.”

Mr Yousaf continued: “Of course this Gathering takes place against the backdrop of widespread shock and sadness at the appalling attack on the Jewish community in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

“The thoughts and prayers of people across Scotland are with everyone affected by this despicable act and we stand in solidarity with the Jewish community across the world.

“In Scotland we will continue to work together to tackle prejudice and build the society we want to be – a safer, stronger and fairer nation where equality and human rights are fully respected and each person, every family and all communities can flourish.”