Bush cites concern on Iran, Syria "threat"

WASHINGTON, Sep 14 (Reuters) President George W Bush discussed concerns about a ''threat'' posed by Syria and Iran as he met on Wednesday with a senior Israeli official, the White House said.

Bush joined a meeting that Israeli Foreign Minister Tzipi Livni was having with White House National Security Adviser Stephen Hadley.

''The president reiterated his strong support for the security of the state of Israel and sent warm personal regards to Prime Minister (Ehud) Olmert,'' said Frederick Jones, spokesman for the White House National Security Council said yesterday.

''He discussed the threat posed by the Iranian and Syrian regimes,'' Jones added.

He said Bush also reiterated his goal of a two-state solution to the conflict between Israelis and the Palestinians.

Bush has accused both Iran and Syria of being sponsors of terrorist groups. Washington also accuses Iran of pursuing atom bombs and wants to see Tehran face sanctions. Iran insists its nuclear program is for peaceful purposes of generating electricity.

REUTERS VJ RN0543