Under Fire

Gripping… vigorous and sometimes inspiring * Joyce McMillan, The Scotsman *
“A shattering account narrated with frankness, emotional intelligence and political courage” * Rachel Shabi, author of Off-White: The Truth About Antisemitism *
This is an unflinching and candid account of a life lived under excessive pressure and scrutiny. As a Scot, it makes me proud to know that we have had a political leader with genuine principles, standards and ethics, who has never sold out, or exploited their position of power in politics. A fascinating and deeply moving insight into an extraordinary life * Annie Lennox *
This book is a powerful testimony to what fortitude looks like and what courage can be when cowardice surrounds you. What love looks like when hate is rewarded. Under Fire is an essential read for all of us right now. * Misan Harriman *
A must for anyone who cares about the humans behind the headlines – Nicola Thorp
A deeply affecting story * The Guardian *
A devastating indictment of the Westminster political class – Peter Oborne * New Statesman *
Humza’s story is brave and important - a stunning insight into what it means to hold power yet still be powerless to stop the devastating suffering in Gaza, and a reminder that integrity can still survive our politics. * Afua Hirsch *
A powerful and deeply personal insider’s story that shines much-needed light on the plight of the Palestinians * Sayeeda Warsi, author of Muslims Don’t Matter *
Under Fire is a deeply moving book, and a wake up call. As Humza Yousaf recounts the searing experience of his and Nadia’s family, he unravels what it means to live in a world in which some lives are valued less than others, even when you are in one of the highest offices in government. This is an intimate account of what it takes to keep your moral fibre when it matters most, and how Palestine is the key to a better politics for everyone. * Khalid Abdalla *
Under Fire is a brave and moving book of impressive moral clarity. It is a mediation by Humza Yousaf on the ancient conundrum weighing loyalty to family against public duty, set against arguably the most important ethnical question of our day: the genocide of the Palestinian people and the astonishing failure of Western democracies to lift a finger to help them. * William Dalrymple *

Humza Yousaf was the First Minister of Scotland from 2023 to 24, the first Muslim leader of a Western European country and the youngest First Minister in Scotland’s history.

He was appointed as Minister for External Affairs and International Development in 2012, and later served as a Minister for Europe, Minister for Transport, as well as Cabinet Secretary for Justice and Health & Social Care. First elected as an MSP for Glasgow in 2011, he was elected in 2016 to serve Glasgow Pollok, becoming the first ethnic minority Member of the Scottish Parliament to be directly elected to a constituency.

After 15 years in politics, including 12 years in government, he has announced his decision to step down from frontline politics in May 2026.

Outside politics, Humza has been involved in community work, from youth organisations to charity fundraising for most of his life. He also volunteered for community radio for 12 years and founded a charitable project providing food packages to homeless people and asylum seekers in Glasgow.

Humza is married to Nadia El-Nakla, and they have three children, Maya, Amal and Liyana.

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