An Israeli court has ruled that the state of Israel was not at fault for the death of Rachel Corrie, the US activist who was killed in the Gaza Strip by an Israeli army bulldozer in 2003.

Judge Oded Gershon stated that Ms Corrie's death was a 'regrettable accident' and that the state was not responsible.

Rachel's mother Cindy Corrie said she was dismayed by the decision:

"We are of course deeply saddened and deeply troubled by what we heard today by Judge Oded Gurshon. I believe that this was a bad day not only for our family but a bad day for human rights for humanity for the rule of law and also for the country of Israel."

Ms Corrie had been trying to stop Palestinian homes being pulled down in Gaza when she was hit by a bulldozer. Ms Corrie's family believe the Israeli army intentionally and unlawfully killed their daughter, and that they subsequently failed to conduct a full and credible investigation.

The Corries family lawyer, Abu Hussein, remained confident an appeal could change the court verdict.

"I think the decision to continue the work (by the Israeli Army) at that day was far from reasonable decision. I believe that we could have a good chance to change this decision through the review by the appeal that we are aiming to issue to the Supreme Court."

Ms Corrie's death made her a symbol of the second Palestinian uprising that took place roughly between the years 200 and 2005. Thousands of Palestinians were killed and hundreds of Israelis died in suicide bombings.

Written and presented by Alfred Joyner