US defends Israeli airstrikes while regretting loss of life

The United States defended Israel's retaliatory attacks into the Gaza Strip on Monday while saying it was "absolutely regrettable" that lives were lost during the actions.

"Israel is faced with the difficult challenge countering these continued rocket attacks from Gaza into Israeli territory," State Department spokesman Sean McCormack said. "They have a right to defend themselves." he said the United States has urged Israeli officials to avoid any undue damage against the Palestinian infrastructure as well as to take into account how their actions can impact peace diplomacy with the Palestinians. (AP)