The story

President Bush leaves for the Middle East on Tuesday to celebrate the United States' ties with its top allies in the region -- Israel, Saudi Arabia, Egypt and Jordan.

During talks with the leaders of those countries, Bush is expected to address two major topics: regional security and rising oil prices.

The trip comes as diplomats work to help Israel and the Palestinians move toward a peace agreement. It also comes amid a new outbreak of violence in Lebanon, whose Western-backed government faces a renewed revolt from Hezbollah. Read full article »

CNN's Ed Henry contributed to this report.

All About George W. Bush • Israel • Egypt • Saudi Arabia • Palestinian Politics