MEMBERS OF THE COMMISSION OF INQUIRY COMMENCE VISIT TO LEBANON

23 September 2006


The three members of the Commission of Inquiry on Lebanon, Mr. João Clemente Baena Soares (Brazil), Mr. Mohamed Chande Othman (Tanzania), and Mr. Stelios Perrakis (Greece) arrived today in Beirut to commence their investigation. They will stay in Lebanon until 7 October.

The Commission of Inquiry on Lebanon is an independent and impartial body mandated by the Human Rights Council to: investigate the systematic targeting and killing of civilians by Israel in Lebanon; examine the types of weapons used by Israel and their conformity with international law; and assess the extent and deadly impact of Israeli attacks on human life, property, critical infrastructure and the environment.

During the visit, the Commissioners will meet with Government officials, diplomatic community and representatives of civil society and other relevant institutions and groups. They will travel to areas affected by the recent conflict to collect evidence and witness accounts of the military operations.

For further information please contact Ms. Pascale El Kassis at the UN Information Centre in Lebanon, phone number +961 (0)3 295 255.