US Mideast envoy visits Israel

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US Mideast envoy George Mitchell has arrived in Egypt, where he is due to have talks with Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak in an effort to promote peace process in the Middle East.

Israeli Defense Minister Ehud Barak, right, shakes hand with US special Mideast envoy George Mitchell during their meeting in Tel Aviv, Sunday, July 26, 2009.(AP Photo/ Uriel Sinai, Pool)

Earlier in Tel Aviv, Mitchell reiterated America's commitment to Israel's security in talks with the country's top officials.

At a meeting with Israel's defense minister Ehud Barak, Mitchell described the differences with Israel as "discussions among friends".

He said a wide range of issues were being addressed, but didn't announce any breakthroughs. The US says continued Israeli construction on lands claimed by the Palestinians threatens to undermine future peace talks.

George Mitchell, US Mideast envoy, said, "Our discussions cover a wide range of issues all of which are intended to help promote what we share in common, a desire for a comprehensive peace in the Middle East, and that includes Israel and Palestine, Israel and Syria, Israel and Lebanon, and normal relations with all countries in the regions. That is President Obama's vision and objective, and it is that which he has asked me to pursue."