ALLENTOWN, Oct 1: The White House on Friday declined to condemn Israel's massive raid in Gaza but cautioned the Jewish state to "keep in mind the impact" of such actions on the peace process.

"There continues to be ongoing violence. We've always said Israel has the right to defend itself, but it's also important to keep in mind the impact of those decisions," spokesman Scott McClellan told reporters.

Mr McClellan also called for a return to the "roadmap" and praised the Israeli prime minister's call for dismantling all Israeli settlements in Gaza.

"We want (the) parties to focus on getting back to moving forward on the roadmap. And Prime Minister Sharon has a bold proposal that can help us get jump-started again on the roadmap," said the spokesman. -AFP