Washington  - The US State Department is seeking a ceasefire in the current Mideast conflict in the Gaza Strip that eases the humanitarian crisis for Palestinians while preventing rocket fire at Israel, spokesman Sean McCormack said late Saturday.

He blamed the conflict on the Islamic militant movement Hamas, which controls the territory, while pointing out that Washington has urged Israel to prevent civilian casualties as it moves forward with a ground offensive launched Saturday.

"We are working toward a ceasefire that would not allow a reestablishment of the status quo ante, where Hamas can continue to launch rockets out of Gaza and to condemn the people of Gaza to a life of misery," McCormack said. "It is obvious that that ceasefire should take place as soon as possible, but we need a ceasefire that is durable, sustainable, and not time limited."

An uneasy, six-month ceasefire that largely prevented militant rocket fire and Israeli retaliation expired last month, leading to a surge in missile fire and Israel's bombing campaign, which began December 27.

"The United States is deeply concerned about the humanitarian situation and the protection of innocents," McCormack said. "In this vein, we have expressed our concerns to the Israeli government that any military action needs to be mindful of the potential consequences to civilians."