OLMERT PUTS OFF INQUIRY

Olmert puts off decision on war inquiry By JOSEF FEDERMAN,
Associated Press Writer 1 hour, 17 minutes ago

JERUSALEM - Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert on Sunday put off a decision on launching an inquiry into the handling of the recent fighting in Lebanon, officials said. The conduct of the 34-day war has been widely criticized, and the Israeli public is clamoring for a serious investigation.Olmert has expressed support for a war probe, but has not said what type of investigation he would like to see. The most sweeping inquiry would be a state commission, with powers to dismiss government and military officials.

Israeli media said that Olmert had been expected to ask his government to endorse an inquiry at Sunday's Cabinet meeting. But Miri Eisin, a spokeswoman for Olmert, said the issue was not discussed at the meeting because Olmert is still weighing various options presented by the attorney general.The recommendations have not yet been assessed to be brought before the Cabinet, Eisin said, adding that there is no timeline for making a decision. There were other issues that needed to be discussed, she said.

Returning soldiers have complained about confused battle plans and shortages of food, water and equipment, and the government has been criticized for accepting a cease-fire without crushing Hezbollah or winning the release of two soldiers captured by the Lebanese guerrilla group.The deaths of 34 soldiers in last-minute fighting just before a truce took hold only deepened the outrage, as have reports from angry soldiers returning from battle.One group of reservists has called an open-ended protest outside Olmert's office, demanding his resignation. Eight former Israeli prisoners of war joined the protest on Sunday.

Olmert's office said Sunday's Cabinet meeting focused on improving preparations for future emergencies.The recommendations included supplying food and medicine to residents confined to bomb shelters for long periods of time, inspecting bomb shelters in private homes and appointing a military officer to help coordinate aid to communities during emergencies.Olmert told his ministers that rebuilding Israel's north, which was hit by thousands of Hezbollah rockets, is his top priority. Olmert will head a special committee overseeing the task.I wish to emphasize that I view the strengthening of Haifa and the north as a national mission, Olmert said. As such, it will be at the head of the government's priorities.