P.J. Crowley, the State Department spokesman, has resigned from the White House after his controversial comments on the Army's treatment of suspected Wikileaks leaker Bradley Manning, which he described as "ridiculous" and "stupid."

Crowley stepped down on Sunday after releasing a statement taking responsibility for his remarks. Administration officials were incensed by his comments, which inferred that they mistreating the army private who is being held in solitary confinement.

In the light of the uproar, Crowley submitted his resignation to Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton.

On Friday President Obama said that Pentagon officials has assured him that Manning, who is believed to be responsible for the largest ever leak of classified American documents, was being held under appropriate conditions.

Manning is reportedly being held in solitary confinement for twenty three hours every day in Quantico, Virgina. He is stripped naked every night, and given a so-called suicide-proof smock to wear to bed.

Meanwhile Secretary of State Hillary Clinton confirmed Crowley departure in a press release on Sunday afternoon.

"It is with regret that I have accepted the resignation of Philip J. Crowley as assistant secretary of state for public affairs. P.J. has served our nation with distinction for more than three decades, in uniform and as a civilian. His service to country is motivated by a deep devotion to public policy and public diplomacy, and I wish him the very best," Clinton wrote.