Sharon defiant after strike on Hamas (June 11, 2003)
PRIME Minister Ariel Sharon today said Israel would continue to "act against the enemies of peace", hours after an Israeli helicopter strike failed to eliminate top Hamas leader Abdul Aziz al-Rantissi.
Sharon addressed former military officers in Israel's coastal town of Netanya and his comments were carried by public television.
"We will continue to act against all the enemies of peace," he said.
"We will continue to fight against terrorism so long as nobody in the other (Palestinian) camp does so.
"We will continue to struggle against the heads of extremist terrorist organisations."
The premier singled out those who "organise and finance terrorists to kill Jews".
US President George W. Bush earlier said he was "troubled" by Israel's helicopter strikes on Palestinian militants, and said "responsible leadership" from all parties was needed for Middle East peace.
"I am troubled by the recent Israeli helicopter gunship attacks. I regret the loss of innocent life.
"I'm concerned that the attacks will make it more difficult for the Palestinian leadership to fight off terrorist attacks.
"I also don't believe the attacks help the Israelis' security."
Bush added: "I am determined to keep the process on the road to peace, and I believe, with responsible leadership by all parties, we can bring peace to the region."
The Israeli government said its forces had tried to eliminate Rantissi in a strike in Gaza City, which left at least two people dead and wounded more than 25 others.
Rantissi escaped with injuries and was admitted to hospital. The attack is seen as dealing a serious blow to efforts to implement the Middle East road map for peace.
Agence France-Presse