In an apparent criticism of controversial Republican presidential front-runner Donald Trump, President Barack Obama has said the US cannot build progress with a "bunch of phony tough talk" or strengthen its

global leadership by allowing politicians to insult Muslims.

"We're not going to strengthen our leadership around the world by allowing politicians to insult Muslims or pit groups of Americans against each other. That's not who we are. That's not keeping America safe," Obama said. 

His remarks were seen by many as a criticism of Trump, the leading contender to become the Republican party's nominee for US presidential candidate.

Trump has called for a "total and complete shutdown" of American borders to Muslims in the wake of the San Bernardino terrorist attack in which 14 people were killed.