Outgoing Prime Minister Ehud Olmert is anxious to close a deal before a new Israeli government takes power in the next few weeks.

VOA: standard.2009.03.15

He said the United States will "stand with Iraq's people and government as a close friend and partner,as Iraqis prepare for elections early next year, continue to take responsibility for their future, and build greater peace and opportunity."

VOA: standard.2009.10.26