The New Statesman: politics and culture "The UK government is complicit in genocide" | Humza Yousaf interview
Aug 28, 2025
Humza Yousaf, former First Minister of Scotland and SNP leader, shares a deeply personal perspective on the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza, as his family members are directly affected. He discusses the harrowing reality of famine impacting over half a million people and critiques the UK government's role, alleging complicity in what he describes as genocide. Yousaf emphasizes the urgent need for a reevaluation of UK foreign policy and highlights growing public support for the Palestinian cause, especially among younger generations.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Family Trauma From Nakba To Gaza Siege
- Humza Yousaf recounts Nadia's family history from the Nakba to their repeated displacement and current suffering in Gaza.
- He describes Sally's repeated displacements, severe malnutrition, and refusal to use aid sites after relatives were killed there.
Daily Voice Notes And Evacuation Attempts
- Humza explains the family's daily Instagram voice-note contact and efforts to get relatives out of Gaza.
- He says many relatives refuse to leave because they do not want to be refugees again despite the danger.
Four Hellish Weeks As First Minister
- Humza describes the worst four weeks of his life when his in-laws were trapped after October 7 and the pressure of public office.
- He recalls frantic calls, a near-goodbye at 3am, and pleading with the Foreign Office for swifter action.