U.N.: Hariri query enters delicate phase

UNITED NATIONS, Dec. 19 (UPI) -- The United Nations says the inquiry into the killing of former Lebanese Prime Minister Rafik Hariri and other assassination victims is in a delicate stage.

Serge Brammertz, head of the International Independent Investigation Commission, in a report Tuesday told the U.N. Security Council the process of interviewing witnesses in such a "politically charged inquiry required extreme delicacy."

"The commission's work can only be undertaken with confidentiality in order to create a secure environment for its witnesses and staff," Brammertz said.

The IIIC was formed after a U.N. probe found Syria politically involved in Lebanon, a view contrary to earlier flawed Lebanese government investigations.

The commission's investigation continues to show "significant links" between the Hariri bombing and 14 other explosions and assassinations which have taken place since October 2004 in Lebanon, Brammertz said.

Analysis of the Beirut explosion which killed Hariri indicates about 1,800 kilograms of TNT was detonated in an improvised explosive device from inside a Mitsubishi van close to his convoy, he added.

However, Brammertz said it was "critical" for IIIC to have access not only to politicians who knew Hariri but also to individuals involved in the relevant political dynamics in Lebanon and the broader region.

While the commissioner promised to continue to aid Lebanon's investigation into the assassination last month of former Lebanese Industry Minister Pierre Gemayel, he said the commission would be unable to achieve its goal in the Hariri and related cases without cooperation from states regarding requests for interviews.