[Dr. Aaron Lerner – IMRA: In contrast, while the Russian statement today criticized Israel, it also put it in context, stating that “In our opinion, extremist forces in Gaza also bear their share of responsibility that by continued rocket firings at Israeli territory – yesterday alone they fired five Qassam rockets at the towns of Sderot and Ashkelon – provoke the authorities of Israel into a military reaction.”]

For Immediate Release Office of the White House Press Secretary November 8, 2006 Statement by the President
www.whitehouse.gov/news/releases/2006/11/20061108-5.html

The United States is deeply saddened by the injuries and loss of life in Gaza today. We send our condolences to the families of all those affected. We have seen the Israeli Government’s apology and understand an investigation has begun. We hope it will be completed quickly and that appropriate steps will be taken to avoid a repetition of this tragic incident. We call on all parties to act with care and restraint so as to avoid any harm to innocent civilians.

RELATED ARTICLESMORE FROM AUTHOR