The IRA announcement that it was withdrawing its decommissioning offer drew mixed reaction in the US.
US Congressman Mr Peter King, a Republican from New York who has an interest in Irish issues, told The Irish Times he understood the IRA action.
"It is important for this to get resolved and to not let the situation get out of control," Mr King said. "But I suppose the IRA felt it had to show that it couldn't be taken for granted. I think the larger issue is that David Trimble has been given veto control over the process. I think the British government has a larger obligation to make sure that Mr Trimble does not have veto power. Whatever is agreed upon must stay agreed upon."
In Washington the Bush administration released the following statement: "The US deeply regrets the Irish Republican Army's announcement today withdrawing its proposal for weapons decommissioning. The IRA's August 8th proposal to the de Chastelain commission had represented a significant step forward.
"We urge the IRA to reconsider its position and to maintain its contact with the commission. Putting arms beyond use is an integral part of implementation of the Good Friday agreement."