Olmert eyes new commitments on Iran during US visit

OCCUPIED JERUSALEM: Israeli Premier Ehud Olmert heads to Washington on Sunday for a "farewell" meeting with President George W. Bush, as the two leaders prepare to hand over the reigns of government. With Bush leaving office on January 20 and Olmert heading a caretaker government ahead of February elections, the two leaders were unlikely to take any major decisions on any of the outstanding issues.

"The prime minister wants to use the meeting as an opportunity to express his appreciation for President Bush's friendship and support for Israel," spokesman Mark Regev said.

The two will discuss "a range of bilateral issues, the peace process as well as issues of regional stability," he said, referring to Iran.

Israel has repeatedly said that "all options are on the table," alluding to a military strike, to halt Iran's nuclear drive. The US and Israel accuse Tehran of covertly building nuclear weapons under the guise of a civilian atomic program.

"We are hopeful for substantive meetings," Regev said.

Olmert wants to clinch new commitments on Iran from his staunch ally before Barack Obama enters the White House, officials said.

Obama's policy toward Iran has raised concerns in Israel because it appears to take into consideration calls from the foreign policy and intelligence establishments for dialogue with the Islamic Republic. More