Washington, Jan 13 (IANS) US President Barack Obama Thursday called Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to discuss the Mideast situation.

The two leaders reviewed the recent face-to-face meetings between the Israeli and Palestinian negotiators in Amman, Xinhua reported.

Obama “reaffirmed his commitment to the goal of a comprehensive and lasting peace in the region,” the White House said in a statement.

They also discussed recent developments relating to Iran, including the international community’s efforts to hold Iran accountable for its failures to meet its international obligations.

Obama reiterated his “unshakable” commitment to Israel’s security, and the two leaders promised to stay in touch in the coming weeks on issues of mutual concern, the White House said.

The US and its allies are mulling expanded sanctions against Iran to target its oil exports over its controversial nuclear program, prompting the Islamic republic to threaten in late December to close the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical oil route.

Iran blames the US and Israel for the assassination of its nuclear scientist Mostafa Ahmadi-Roshan in Tehran Wednesday.