Axelrod On This Week: Obama To Begin Diplomacy Immediately

WASHINGTON — A top aide to President-elect Barack Obama says the new administration plans to act quickly and engage in diplomacy around the world.

David Axelrod said Sunday that everyone is hopeful that the cease-fire in the Middle East lasts.

He said the events around the world demand that Obama act quickly, and the American people will see that as he takes office. Appearing on CNN's "State of the Union," Axelrod did not provide details for what Obama plans to do about the Middle East.

On Saturday, Israel declared a unilateral cease-fire in its military operations against Hamas militants in the Gaza Strip and urged both sides to end attacks immediately and militants in Hamas-ruled Gaza agreed Sunday to a weeklong cessation of hostilities.