Palestinians aren’t exactly known for their kilts, haggis or whisky, but bagpipers from Beit Jala in the occupied West Bank definitely put their musical weight behind Scottish independence.
Whether it’s the “na'am” or “la” vote, the Palestinian support for Scottish independence is a reflection of their own struggle to have a state free of occupation.
Bagpipers are a common site in the streets of Glasgow or Edinburgh, but Beit Jala band members insist the instrument is also part of their culture.
“The Scots used to have bagpipes on the battlefield, so for me it’s part of resistance,” one man who has played the pipes since he was a young boy told AFP.
Although bagpipes were brought to the region by the British between 1920-1948, Palestinians take pride in the piping parades, which have now become an important part of many celebrations, such as Christmas.
As the big day for the Scottish referendum approaches, solidarity from these Palestinian pipers is just as strong as William Wallace!
