Obama defends Israel, says he wants Mideast peace

(AP) — President Barack Obama says he's working to get the Israelis and Palestinians to resume peace talks.

At a town hall meeting in Tampa, Fla. Thursday, Obama declined under questioning to condemn Israel for actions against the Palestinians. He said Israel is a strong U.S. ally and that he will never waver from helping Israel keep its people safe in a hostile Middle East.

But Obama also said the situation facing the Palestinian people is one that needs attention, too. He said he is seeking a solution in which Israelis and Palestinians can live side by side in peace. But both parties must return to the bargaining table, and that is something Obama said he is working to achieve.