ISRAEL is blocking delivery of a fire appliance and life-saving equipment sent to Palestine from Britain by the Fire Brigades Union (FBU).

Although the vehicle and equipment have been given documented clearance, they are being held by customs at the Israeli port of Ashdod.

The appliance has been donated to the Palestinian fire and rescue service by the FBU in Scotland, from where it made the 3,500-mile journey to Israel.

The union said it is not the first time Israel has blocked delivery of life-saving equipment to Palestine.

Jim Malone of the FBU said: “The Israeli government appears to be deliberately holding up the delivery of this vital humanitarian aid from Scotland. 

“We are in touch every day with our comrades in the Palestinian municipality of Nablus who have forwarded us all the certification and communications with the Israelis. Their frustrations at the delay are shared here in Scotland.”

The union has asked politicians to intervene.