"This is a matter of extreme seriousness, " State Department deputy spokesman Philip Reeker said in a written statement.

CNN: U.S. says Russian convoy off-route

In Washington on Wednesday, U.S. State Department spokesman Phil Reeker repeated earlier criticism of the Israeli moves against targets in Gaza.

CNN: Teen-ager killed in 'pinpoint' strike in Gaza

Deputy State Department spokesman Phil Reeker countered el-Baz's charges that the Bush administration was not actively involved in mediating the conflict.

CNN: El-Baz

Nonetheless, says Philip Reeker, the spokesman for the U.S. ambassador to Iraq, security has improved enough to open a window of opportunity.

NPR: Iraqis Skeptical New Sense of Security Can Last

Reeker called the complaint "rhetoric, " and said the law, which has been in effect since 1966, is a longstanding component of U.S. policy toward Cuba.

CNN: graphic

Philip Reeker, deputy State Department spokesman, said the tapes underscore the need for continuing international cooperation to capture al Qaeda operatives and freeze the group's financing.

CNN: White House official: Tapes 'disturbing'

"We're talking to leaders of the international community, in close contact with both sides -- the Israelis and the Palestinians -- trying to find ways that we can restore a sense of trust and confidence between the two sides, in hopes of finding a lasting, permanent solution, " Reeker said.

CNN: El-Baz