Bush discusses Mideast with PM Olmert

CRAWFORD (AP) — President George W. Bush on Wednesday discussed with Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert ways to "end the violence" in the Mideast, the White House said.

"They both discussed their mutual desire" for peace, presidential spokesman Gordon Johndroe told reporters. He said the president consulted by phone early Wednesday with the Israeli leader from Bush's ranch in Crawford, Texas. The call came amid new indications that Israel is not interested in the push by the United States, Europe and others for a twoday cease-fire.

Bush voiced concern about the strikes in Gaza and the attacks in Israel and also raised again his worries about civilian casualties in Gaza. Olmert gave Bush assurances that Israel is focusing its attack on the Hamas leadership governing the Gaza Strip and that it is trying to limit civilian casualties.