"Our countries have stood side by side through global challenges," said the former first lady, after an hour-long meeting with Mr Miliband.

"We share fundamental values and objectives ranging across combating terrorism and weapons of mass destruction and working to solve the global economic crisis.

"It is often said that the US and Great Britain have enjoyed a special relationship. Well, it's certainly been that in my mind this relationship really stands the test of time and I look forward to working with the foreign secretary."

But, Clinton noted, "There were rockets yesterday, there were rockets this morning. It is difficult to ask any nation to do anything other than defend itself in the wake of that kind of consistent attack."

Although she will send special Mideast envoy George Mitchell back to the region, she emphasized that "our conditions with respect to Hamas have not and will not change."

Following the policy set out by the Bush administration and international community, Clinton said the United States will not talk to Hamas until it renounces violence, recognizes Israel and abides by previous agreements signed by Israel and the Palestinians.

"It is a terrible humanitarian crisis compounded by a corrupt and very cruel regime in Khartoum." (BBC link)