"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