Israel sets up committee to investigate its handling of Lebanon

ISRAELI Defence Minister Amir Peretz yesterday created a committee to investigate Israel’s conduct during the 34-day fight against Hezbollah following growing criticism of ministers and generals.

The formation of the committee was a step toward addressing criticism over the handling of the crisis but fell short of meeting growing demands for the creation of an independent commission of inquiry to investigate both the government’s and the military’s performance.

The committee, made up of business executives and retired generals, will be led by a former army chief and will look into the army’s preparedness ahead of the fighting, officials said.