WASHINGTON – New Secretary of State John Kerry reached out to Israeli and Palestinian leaders in phone calls this weekend, assuring them the Obama administration will continue to pursue a Mideast peace agreement while recognizing the individual concerns on both sides.

Kerry told Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of his and President Barack Obama's commitment to support Israel's security and to pursue a lasting peace between Israelis and Palestinians. Netanyahu updated Kerry on his work to form a new government. They also discussed Iran and Syria, and pledged to work together closely.

Kerry commended the Israeli decision to release frozen tax revenues to the Palestinian Authority as an important step. Israel's monthly tax transfers to the Palestinians – the result of taxes and customs duties that Israel collects on behalf of the Palestinians – are a key element in the Palestinian government budget.