Last update - 00:00 14/11/2006
Knesset declares support for state panel of inquiry on war
By Gideon Alon, Haaretz Correspondent
The Knesset plenum on Tuesday approved a declaration of support for the establishment of a state committee of inquiry to investigate the handling of the second war in Lebanon.
"The Knesset demands that an independent panel be established to investigate the second war in Lebanon and to examine the functioning of the government in dealing with the home front," reads the declaration, which was initiated by MK Haim Oron (Meretz) and MK Aryeh Eldad (National Union - NRP).
The declaration is itself just a motion of support, and has no actual legislative significance. The motion was supported in a vocal vote of 11 in favor and ten opposed, on a day when coalition representation in the plenum was particularly low.
"Although this is a decision of only sentimental value, it nevertheless is very important as it is designated to weaken the coalition line. We have caught them with their pants down. It is a crumbling coalition," said Oron.
The current committee investigating the activities of the political and military echelon during the war has raised ire among many in Israel, as it comprises members appointed by the government.