Controversial Stand: John Mason Defends His Israel Comments After SNP Whip Withdrawal

John Mason maintains his position on Israel remark following SNP whip withdrawal

John Mason has been essentially ousted from the SNP following his post on X, stating: "If Israel intended to carry out genocide, the death toll would have been ten times higher."

Scotland correspondent @Jenster13

Monday, August 19, 2024, 1:

An MSP who lost the SNP's support after making a highly offensive social media comment about the Israel-Hamas conflict has stated that he maintains his position on the statement.

John Mason has been essentially ousted from the party following his post on X, where he stated: "If Israel intended to perform genocide, the death toll would have been tenfold."

The MSP for Glasgow Shettleston remarked during a controversy regarding a session held with Daniela Grudsky, the Deputy Ambassador of Israel to the UK.

Israel has firmly rejected claims of committing genocide.

In an interview with Sky News, Mr. Mason expressed: "I never aim to offend anyone, however, I am not hesitant to do so if it involves addressing significant issues."

The politician stated that he had reflected on the conflict "over a period of time," indicating that it "wasn't a recent consideration."

He stated, "The fact is, if Israel truly intended to carry out genocide, the situation would be far more dire than it currently is. I believe this is a legitimate argument, and I support it."

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When the Scottish Parliament gathers again next month, SNP MSPs are set to deliberate on the possibility of imposing a definite suspension on Mr. Mason.

The removal of the party whip requires him to serve as an independent Member of the Scottish Parliament until it is reinstated.

The SNP described the remark as "completely reprehensible."

Mr. Mason expressed, "It's disheartening because my dedication to the SNP runs deep."

"I have served the party for around 26 years, so naturally, it's disappointing. However, it's not a catastrophe."

Mr. Mason mentioned that "one or two" of his SNP peers had reached out to show their solidarity.

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Mr. Mason mentioned that although he has faced some negative comments on social media, the majority of his emails have been extremely supportive.

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Further reading: A fatal bombing in Tel Aviv claims one life. A UK diplomat steps down amid accusations of war crimes. Tensions rise in Lebanon following an Israeli attack.

The situation involving Mr. Mason occurred at a time when the Scottish government was facing scrutiny for its interaction with Israeli diplomat Ms. Grudsky.

News of the meeting surfaced when Ms. Grudsky shared a photo on X featuring herself with External Affairs Secretary Angus Robertson, taken earlier this month.

First Minister John Swinney stated that it was "essential" for his administration to directly communicate the urgency of an "immediate ceasefire" in Gaza.

During her visit to Scotland, Mr. Mason spent time with Ms. Grudsky and posted a photo online, leading him to write a post that resulted in him being stripped of the party whip.

Mr. Mason mentioned to Ms. Grudsky that Israel will eventually need to address the conflict.

He stated: "Regardless of the circumstances, the reality remains that Ukraine and Russia will ultimately need to engage in dialogue."

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Mr. Mason also stood by Mr. Robertson's choice to have a meeting with Ms. Grudsky.

He stated: "That position belongs to Angus, it's his responsibility. I believe it's completely appropriate for him to meet with others."

He stated: "I wish for both Scotland and the UK to actively advocate for peace, to engage with all parties involved, and to be a reliable ally."

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