Last updated at: (Beijing Time) Friday, July 26, 2002
US Concerned about Israeli Attack on Gaza: Powell
US Secretary of State Colin Powell on Thursday expressed concerns over Israel's missile attacks on a residence building in Gaza Strip early Tuesday, which killed 15 Palestinians, including nine children.
US Secretary of State Colin Powell on Thursday expressed concerns over Israel's missile attacks on a residence building in Gaza Strip early Tuesday, which killed 15 Palestinians, including nine children.
Without indicating that Israel had violated US laws by using US-made F-16 fighters in the raid, the secretary told reporters that Israel's use of US-made weapons is under constant review by the United States.
"We are constantly reviewing the manner in which the military equipment that we have provided to the state of Israel is used," Powell said after meeting with visiting Afghan Foreign Minister Abdullah Abdullah.
"In this case (the Gaza attack), in going after one particular individual in a built-up area, a number of lives were lost," said Powell.
Addressing a news briefing on Wednesday, State Department spokesman Richard Boucher also warned that Israel would face "consequences" if it misused US-made weapons.
Under US Arms Export Control Act, the State Department is required to report to the Congress if it finds out that US-made weapons has been used for purpose other than "legitimate self-defense or internal security."