Scottish National Party (SNP) MSP John Mason has had the party whip removed following his controversial comments regarding the Israel-Hamas conflict, which were deemed 'utterly abhorrent' by party officials. Mason dismissed the notion of genocide in Gaza, stating, 'If Israel wanted to commit genocide, they would have killed ten times as many,' which drew widespread criticism, including from former SNP Westminster leader Ian Blackford. The SNP confirmed the whip was withdrawn with immediate effect, pending internal discussions about further disciplinary actions. The comments come amid heightened tensions in the region, with over 40,000 Palestinians reported killed and accusations of genocide being investigated by the International Court of Justice. Scottish First Minister John Swinney defended meetings with Israeli representatives, emphasizing the need for a ceasefire. The SNP is set to hold discussions regarding Mason's future within the party, reflecting its commitment to intolerance towards such comments.