U.S. President George W. Bush announced through his White House officials a trip to the Middle East during May 13-18 in an attempt to boost the peace process between Israelis and Palestinians. Unfortunately, the White House also stated that their expectations on a quick and successful breakthrough are very low.

”Moments like when the president is going to go and travel to the region can create opportunity to push this system a little bit further. But we're under no illusions that things are going to happen immediately," said White House spokeswoman Dana Perino acording to Reuters. She also explained that the Israeli and Palestinian leaders are also very interested and hopeful for a proper peace settlement but they acknowledge that much more work needs to be done.

This will be Bush’s second meeting with the Israeli officials since November, when he welcomed Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert and Abbas to a peace summit in Maryland. At the time, discussions seemed to be going on the right track but due to violence and disputes in the area, the negotiation process was greatly delayed.

During his visit to Israel, George Bush will meet Israeli President Shimon Peres and Olmert and speak to the Knesset, the Israeli parliament.

"The president is going to go there to celebrate, but also to continue to push on the peace process," Perino said according to the Associated Press.

Bush maintains his opinion that a solid peace resolution can be reached in the area by the end of his term in January 2009.