WASHINGTON: The United States on Tuesday declined to criticize Israel over the killing of five Al Jazeera journalists in the Gaza Strip, referring questions to its ally. The Israeli military alleged that Anas Al-Sharif, a prominent face on the Qatar-based network covering the violence, headed a Hamas “terrorist cell” and was “responsible for advancing rocket attacks” against Israelis. “What I will tell you is that we refer you to Israel for information regarding Al-Sharif,” State Department spokeswoman Tammy Bruce told reporters.

The Committee to Protect Journalists warned last month it was gravely concerned for Anas al-Sharif's safety after an Israeli military ‘smear campaign’

Israel- Palestine conflict: Israeli military kills Al Jazeera journalist accused of leading Hamas cell in Gaza, sparking condemnation and calls for protection.