Texas attack `inspired` but not directed by IS: Pentagon chief

Washington: An attempted attack on an exhibit of caricatures of the Prophet Mohammed in Texas was inspired by -- but not ordered by -- the Islamic State group, US Defense Secretary Ashton Carter said Thursday.

"Our understanding from the investigations that are going on was that these were inspired by ISIL, not directed by ISIL, which is an important distinction," Carter told reporters, using an alternative acronym for the group.