IDF defends use of cluster bombs in Lebanon

By JPOST.COM STAFF
An IDF official on Thursday defended the IAF's air force's use of cluster bombs during the war against Hizbullah in Lebanon as completely legal, responding to criticism by a UN official who labeled the use of such ordnance immoral. The UN humanitarian chief, Jan Egeland, told a news conference in New York on Wednesday that a large proportion of the bombs had failed to explode on impact and were continuing to maim and kill civilians every day. He said he was particularly disturbed that Israel used them even as a cease-fire loomed. Israeli government spokeswoman Miri Eisin said all war was regrettable but Israel had acted in accordance with international norms. "Israel does not break any international laws in the type of armaments it uses," she told The Associated Press. "Their use conforms with international standards."