Peres says Israel erred in warring with Hezbollah

[Violet_Crumble]

Friday, March 23, 2007
By Steve Weizman, The Associated Press

JERUSALEM -- Vice Premier Shimon Peres told a panel investigating the government's handling of last year's war in Lebanon that Israel's decision to invade was a mistake and that the military was unprepared, according to testimony made public yesterday.

Mr. Peres also said Hezbollah did a better job of handling media coverage than the Israelis did.

The 15-page transcript of his appearance before the commission last November has large swathes deleted on security grounds by Israel's military censors, but nevertheless provides insights into the veteran statesman's thinking.

"The greatest mistake is the very fact of war," he told the commission. "If it had been up to me, I would not have gone into this war."

Prime Minister Ehud Olmert appointed the commission, headed by a retired judge, under intense pressure from a dissatisfied public because of the inconclusive war.

http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/07082/771920-82.stm

[bemildred]

1. Today's "No shit Sherlock!" award. nt