Scot among those killed in Hamas attack on Israel, family confirms

A Scot is among those killed in the Hamas attack on Israel on Saturday, his family have said.

Bernard Cowan, who grew up around Glasgow, died in the surprise attack by the Palestinian militant group on southern Israel.

More than 10 Britons are feared dead or missing amid the violence, which has reportedly claimed the lives of least 700 people in Israel and more than 400 in Gaza.

Mr Cowan’s family told the BBC: “We are grieving the loss of our son and brother, Bernard Cowan, who was horrifically murdered on Saturday during the surprise terrorist attack on Israel by Hamas.

“We ask for privacy at this time while we process this huge loss to our family, both at home and in Israel, and to the Jewish community in Glasgow where he will be sorely missed.”

Conservative MSP Jackson Carlaw paid tribute to Mr Cowan.

He posted on X, formerly Twitter: “Desperately sad & grim news.

“The family of Bernard Cowan, of late my Eastwood constituent, have confirmed that he was murdered on Saturday by Hamas.

“Our heartfelt condolences to his family as we respect their privacy in their grief.

“May his memory be a blessing.”

Friend Sammy Stein, from Glasgow Friends of Israel, told BBC Scotland’s The Nine: “It was awful. I mean, it was really, really dreadful.

“Many people were killed and injured but when it’s someone who you know personally, it’s a lot more difficult to understand and comprehend and accept.”

Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar said: “I have just heard the tragic news of the murder of Glasgow-born Bernard Cowan by Hamas.

“My condolences and prayers are with his family and all those affected by the violence.

“There is never any justification for terrorism and the loss of innocent life.”