Amal Alamuddin declines UN`s Gaza investigation offer

London: Lawyer Amal Alamuddin, who is engaged to Hollywood superstar George Clooney, has declined the offer from UN to investigate on war crimes going on in Gaza, saying she has other commitments. Alamuddin, 36, cited eight legal cases for not being able to accept the offer from the UN Human Rights Council, reportedly.

"I was contacted by the UN about this for the first time this morning. I am honoured to have received the offer, but given existing commitments, including eight ongoing cases, unfortunately could not accept this role," Alamuddin said in a statement. "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," she said. "I wish my colleagues who will serve on the commission courage and strength in their endeavours," the Lebanese barrister added. Alamuddin, who became engaged to Clooney in April this year, previously worked with the international tribunal examining the assassination of Rafik Hariri, the former Lebanese Prime Minister, and assisted ex-UN head Kofi Annan in efforts to make peace in Syria