PARIS (AP) – The United States is condemning in the “strongest possible terms” an attack on a French church that left its 86-year-old priest dead.

The Islamic State group claimed responsibility for the attack, which was carried out by two individuals who were shot and killed by police.

White House spokesman Ned Price says France and the United States are committed to protecting religious liberty for all faiths. He says that commitment will not waver because of Tuesday’s attack in the small northwestern town of Saint-Etienne-du-Rouvray.

Price also commended what he said was the “quick and decisive response” by French law enforcement.