Scotland's First Minister has issued a stark warning over the deteriorating situation in Iran, expressing profound concern for citizens facing a regime accused of blatantly disregarding human rights.
Swinney's Call for a Peaceful, International Response
Speaking during a visit to Cowdenbeath in Fife on Monday 12 January 2026, John Swinney stressed the urgent need for the global community to unite in forging a peaceful path forward. He emphasised that a commitment to peaceful resolution must be the cornerstone of all international discussions concerning Iran.
"I am very concerned about the experience of the citizens of Iran, in what they are facing at the hands of a regime that is acting with disregard to the human rights of the people of Iran," stated the First Minister.
Context of Unrest and International Stance
Swinney's comments come against a backdrop of significant civil unrest within Iran. What began as protests in late December 2025 over a struggling economy has rapidly evolved into the most serious challenge to the rule of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in years.
The scale of the state's response has been severe, with reports indicating hundreds of protesters killed and thousands more detained during the crackdown.
When questioned about potential military action, hinted at by US President Donald Trump's remarks on considering "very strong options," Swinney firmly advocated for diplomacy. He declared himself a "very strong supporter of an international rules-based system" which he credited with maintaining peace and security since the Second World War.
"I think the international community needs to invest ever more in the importance of a rules-based system to protect all within our society," he added.
UK Government Position and Sanctions
The First Minister's intervention follows statements from the UK government in Westminster. UK Trade Secretary Peter Kyle indicated that the British government had already applied sanctions against Iran "to the full extent we can."
Kyle added that Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer was actively collaborating with international partners to explore ways to "bring international pressure to bear" on Tehran's leadership. He affirmed the UK's deep concern for Iranian civilians, stating, "We will do everything we can."
For Swinney, the path is clear: protecting individual human rights and pursuing a collective, peaceful approach through established international frameworks is the only viable way to resolve the deepening crisis.
