Israeli army radio has said that US president Barack Obama surprisingly joined a White House meeting that took place Thursday between Israel's Deputy Prime Minister Shaul Mofaz and US National Security Advisor Tom Donilon. According to the station, Obama listened during the meeting to Mofaz’s presentation of the latest updates in the Middle East, especially related to the peace process with Palestine. During the meeting, Mofaz said that negotiations with the Palestinians would take place during the next few days, however he did not mention a specific date. Mofaz also mentioned Iran's controversial nuclear programme, saying it was essential to increase sanctions against Tehran as well be open to other possibilities. Mofaz added that Obama affirmed the fulfillment of the US's promises in this regard.