As the Palestinian Authority pleaded for international protection, the Obama administration expressed support for Israel’s military operation in Gaza. White House Press Secretary Josh Earnest spoke to reporters on Tuesday.

White House Press Secretary Josh Earnest: “Let me start by saying that we strongly condemn the continuing rocket fire into Israel and the deliberate targeting of civilians by terrorist organizations in Gaza. No country can accept rocket fire aimed at civilians, and we support Israel’s right to defend itself against these vicious attacks.”