Burton: No repeat of flotilla violence

ABOARD AIR FORCE ONE, June 2 (UPI) -- The White House said Wednesday President Barack Obama does not want to see a repeat of the violence stemming from an effort to break Israel's Gaza blockade.

Deputy press secretary Bill Burton told reporters aboard Air Force One en route to Pittsburgh Obama has talked with Israeli officials and made clear "we don't (want to) see the same kind of events unfold like they did the last time."

Israeli commandos stormed a flotilla bringing humanitarian aid to Gaza early Monday, killing at least nine activists. Israel has said the commandos were attacked with pipes and other weapons on one of the six ships they boarded and responded to protect themselves. The incident has prompted calls for sanctions against Israel. More ships are said to be en route.

"We are talking to our partners and are hopeful that we won't see a repeat," Burton said.

"What's most important to the president is that events like the one that transpired a couple nights ago don't transpire again, that we're protecting the security of Israel, and that we're getting aid to the folks who need it in Gaza."