Senior Strategist Robert Gibbs released the following statement about Obama's meetings today:

This morning, Senator Barack Obama had separate wide-ranging and productive discussions with Defense Minister and Labor Party Leader Ehud Barak; and Opposition Leader and Likud Party Chairman Benjamin Netanyahu. Senator Obama expressed his sympathy for victims of the recent terrorist attack in Jerusalem, and made it clear that he condemns all such acts of terrorism and supports Israel's right to defend itself.

In these meetings, they reviewed the global strategic situation, focusing particularly on developments in the Middle East. They discussed the shared threats and challenges faced by Israel and the United States, with a particular emphasis on Iran's nuclear program, its support for terrorism, and its destabilizing actions in the region. Senator Obama reaffirmed his commitment to Israel's security, as well as his determination to support efforts to promote a lasting peace between Israelis and Palestinians. They also discussed the prospects for progress between Israel and Syria. Senator Obama underscored his personal commitment to strengthen the special U.S.-Israel relationship.

Later this morning, Senator Obama met with Israeli President Shimon Peres where they discussed regional economic and security issues as well as President Peres' leadership on energy issues, including solar power.

This afternoon, Senator Barack Obama met with President Mahmoud Abbas and Prime Minister Salam Fayyad of the Palestinian Authority. Senator Obama reiterated his support for ongoing peace talks, and agreed that the next U.S. Administration should build on whatever progress is achieved in the Annapolis process this year. They discussed how the situation would be advanced by tangible improvements on the ground for all sides, including greater security for the Israelis and greater economic opportunity for the Palestinians. Senator Obama reaffirmed his commitment to promote a lasting peace between Israelis and Palestinians.