Mideast Visit

(NBCNC) - As President Obama prepares to meet with the head of the Palestinian Authority there is new violence in the region.

Palestinian militants fired a rocket into Southern Israel. Early reports show property damage, but no one hurt, but this just underscores one of the reasons for the president's trip.

Today's rocket fire into Southern Israel came amid protests of President Obama's meeting with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas today.

The West Bank - not happy with what they've heard so far. "There was very little said except the fact that peace is in the interests of Israel," said Palestine Liberation Organization's Executive Committee Member Hanan Ashrawi.

"I actually believe that Israel's security will be enhanced with a resolution to this issue," said President Barack Obama

Experts say the U.S. could play a key role here. "Unless the Americans exert leadership and push both sides to reach an understanding and hopefully final peace between the Palestinians and the Israelis, this issue will always be exploited by the radicals in the region," said Hisham Melhem, Washington Bureau Chief Al-Arabiya

On Iran developing a nuclear weapon - Mr. Obama and Israel's Prime Minister agree. It's at least a year away.

Despite differences in their approach, Mr. Netanyahu seemed satisfied with Mr. Obama's commitment. "I'm absolutely convinced that the president is determined to prevent Iran from getting nuclear weapons. I appreciate that," said Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

"I think there is time to resolve this issue diplomatically," said President Barack Obama.

"Diplomacy and sanctions must be augmented by clear and credible threat of military action," said Benjamin Netanyahu, Israel Prime Minister.

Back in Jerusalem today, president Obama's keynote speech to Israel's youth this afternoon wraps up a goodwill mission in a region still hoping for peace.