External Affairs Minister Humza Yousaf has urged Scots to donate to an emergency appeal to help those affected by the Gaza crisis, as the Scottish Government repeated its call for an immediate ceasefire and an arms embargo.

Mr Yousaf said the international community cannot "stand idly by" as the death toll rises among civilians in the troubled region.

"As a Government we are adding our voice to those in the international community calling for an immediate, longer term ceasefire to put an end to the violence in Gaza which is causing so many civilian deaths and injuries," he said.

The minister also reiterated a plea for an arms embargo, amid reports that military equipment containing parts made in Scotland and the wider UK are being used against the residents of Gaza.

"That is why earlier this week I called for an immediate suspension of UK arms sales to Israel while an investigation takes place," he said.

"The UN has already indicated there is a strong possibility that international law has been violated through the hostilities in Gaza, until this has been established the UK Government needs to implement a complete suspension of arms sales to Israel.

"We must be certain that any military equipment from Scotland and the UK is not being used in violation of international safeguards to ensure we are not complicit in any heinous actions."

"I am proud to see people across Scotland condemn this escalating cycle of violence and I would encourage people to text DONATE to 70000 to the Disasters Emergency Committee's Gaza Crisis Appeal, as every single donation, no matter how big or small will help those who are suffering and in need."

The Disasters Emergency Committee (DEC) said its appeal for Gaza had raised more than £4.5 million in less than 24 hours.

DEC chief executive Saleh Saeed said: ''The funds are desperately needed, with on-going fighting in Gaza creating an unbearable situation for families and children."