Israel's DM blasts human rights report

JERUSALEM, July 15 (UPI) -- Israeli Defense Minister Ehud Barak blasted a human rights report accusing the army of war crimes in Gaza and demanded all criticism be directed to him.

Noting Operation Cast Lead had restored calm to southern Israeli communities, Barak said Wednesday any criticism concerning the behavior of troops should be addressed to him as Israel's defense minister, local media quoted him saying.

Israel's army is one of the most ethical armies in the world and acts according to the highest moral code, Barak said.

The report issued by Breaking the Silence organization said it based its findings on testimony from 54 Israeli soldiers who participated in the Gaza operation, revealing gaps in reports initially submitted by the army.

The troops' testimony revealed details of "the destruction of hundreds of houses and mosques for no military purpose, the killing of innocent victims with small arms," and described "a permissive atmosphere in the command structure that enabled soldiers to act without moral restrictions," the report said.

The group also accused troops of forcing Palestinians to act as human shields while searching Gaza homes.

A statement issued by the army Wednesday said the report contained general and anonymous testimony and did not allow the army to respond to the allegations before publishing its findings.

The army said the testimony documented in the report appears to have been based on hearsay since it lacks identifying details, including the rank, first name initials, and the date and place where they were taken.