Scotland’s First Minister John Swinney has sharply criticized the United States and Israel for what he described as an unjustified attack on Iran, saying it lacked any basis in international law. In a post on social media platform X on Tuesday, he called for an immediate halt to the assault in the interest of Iran’s innocent children and global peace.

Swinney said Tehran was burning, with streets engulfed in flames, schools bombed, and thousands killed, describing the situation as indefensible. He urged diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions and end the ongoing war. The conflict intensified after the United States and Israel launched a joint strike on Iran on February 28, which reportedly killed around 1,300 people, including then–Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

Iran has since retaliated with drone and missile attacks targeting Israel, Jordan, Iraq, and Gulf states hosting US military assets, causing casualties, infrastructure damage, and disruptions to global markets and air travel.

Scotland secured a historic return to the FIFA World Cup after 28 years by defeating Denmark 4-2 in a dramatic Group C qualifier. The Scots last appeared in the World Cup in 1998, making this qualification a landmark achievement for a new generation of players. Despite Denmark dominating possession with 63% and taking 20 shots, Scotland proved clinical, converting four of their five shots on target. Scott McTominay opened the scoring with a spectacular bicycle kick in the third minute, followed by goals from Lawrence Shankland, Kieran Tierney, and Kenny McLean. Denmark equalized twice through Rasmus Højlund and Patrick Dorgu but ultimately fell short. With four wins, one draw, and one loss, Scotland topped Group C with 13 points, while Denmark finished second with 11 points and will head to the playoffs. The victory sparked jubilant celebrations across Scotland as the team booked their long-awaited World Cup ticket.