The White House says President Bush will travel to the Middle East region early next month.

Spokesman Gordon Johndroe did not provide further details of the president's travel plans.

Bush to Visit Middle East in January

Official confirmation of Mr. Bush's trip to the region came after Israeli media reports Tuesday said Mr. Bush is expected to visit Israel in January.

Bush to Visit Middle East in January

If Mr. Bush does travel to Israel, it would be his first trip to the nation as president.

Bush to Visit Middle East in January

Last week, at a U.S.-hosted Mideast peace conference in Annapolis, Maryland, Israeli and Palestinian leaders agreed to restart negotiations aimed at reaching a peace deal by the end of 2008.

After that announcement, President Bush said the United States will be actively engaged in the process as Israelis and Palestinians seek a two-state settlement.