LONDON, Aug. 12 (UPI) -- Human rights lawyer Amal Alamuddin declined an offer from the U.N. to investigate the alleged human rights violations in the conflict between Israel and Hamas.
Alamuddin was named one of three experts on a panel formed Monday that would lead the investigation. The 36-year-old Oxford graduate said while she is horrified by the actions in Gaza, she could not participate in the inquiry.
"I am honoured to have received the offer, but given existing commitments -- including eight ongoing cases -- unfortunately could not accept this role," said Alamuddin. "I am horrified by the situation in the occupied Gaza Strip, particularly the civilian casualties that have been caused, and strongly believe that there should be an independent investigation and accountability for crimes that have been committed."
The British-Lebanese lawyer has represented WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange, participated in the investigation into the assassination of Rafik Hariri, the former Lebanese Prime Minister, and worked with former U.N. Secretary-General Kofi Annan to help negotiate peace in Syria.
The successful human rights lawyer made headlines after it was announced that she would marry actor and long-time bachelor George Clooney.
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