US secretary of states Hillary Clinton has said that Israeli and Palestinian leaders are serious about reaching a peace deal. Talking to reporters after meeting Israeli President Shimon Peres in Jerusalem today, she said both sides are getting down to business and they have begun to grapple with the core issues that can only be resolved with face-to-face negotiations. Mrs. Clinton said, the United States would stand by them as they make difficult decisions as this effort takes patience, persistence and leadership. She added, It is always easier to defer tough decisions than to make them. Israeli and Palestinian leaders are meeting in Jerusalem to continue the negotiations after yesterday’s talks in Sharm al Sheikh in Egypt. The meeting is mediated by US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and Middle East envoy from the US, George Mitchell. Meanwhile, two Qassam rockets were fired into Israel from Gaza this morning, as militants apparently stepped up attempts to thwart the Middle East peace talks. There were no injuries or property damage. The Israel Defence Forces confirmed that nine mortar bombs also hit open ground in the Eshkolon area near the Gaza Strip. The Palestinian group hamas, who controls Gaza is opposed to the talks as it does not recognise existence of Israel.