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Geagea Says International Probe into Mass Graves Only Way

The head of the Lebanese Forces' executive committee, Samir Geagea, has called for the creation of an international inquiry into recently unearthed mass graves in Anjar and Yarze, saying the case cannot "be resolved in any other way."
Speaking to reporters, Geagea said: "I would rather wait for the completion of the (Lebanese) investigation into the identities of the victims … and the perpetrators before commenting."

However, he pointed out that the location of the mass graves "implicated those who were in charge in those areas. Nevertheless, I prefer to wait before giving my final opinion on the matter."

He told An Nahar: "The first grave was unearthed in the Defense Ministry, where there was no presence of militias. The second was found in Anjar, which was under the control of the Syrian military and pro-Syrian militias."

Asked whether he supported a probe into other mass graves especially in the Upper Metn area and in which the Phalange was implicated, Geagea said: "It would be wrong to issue baseless accusations. I support the opening of all cases involving mass graves anywhere in Lebanon and a thorough and comprehensive investigation to reveal thirty years of facts that some are seeking to bury and that are well known by the public."

Geagea backed the formation of an international probe into the mass graves saying "the case will not be resolved in any other way."

"The Lebanese government is asking the Security Council to form a committee … that would determine the identities of the victims based on the findings of the Lebanese judiciary and the identities of missing persons. We all have an interest in uncovering the truth."

Geagea said that the Lebanese Forces was cooperating with the government in the case and would, at a later stage, work through Parliament to help reveal the truth.(An Nahar photo shows Geagea meeting with former legislator Salah Hnein)

Beirut, 07 Dec 05, 09:25


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