An Israeli police officer committed suicide Tuesday during a departure ceremony for French President Nicolas Sarkozy, officials said.

The commotion stirred fears of an assassination attempt as bodyguards whisked away Sarkozy and Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert.

The area police commander, Nissim Mor, said police were looking into the incident.

"We are currently investigating the circumstances to see whether it was suicide or if he accidentally discharged his weapon," he said. "His mission was to secure an area to prevent people from reaching the ceremony."

No Peace without Sharing Jerusalem

Sarkozy's three-day trip to Israel was meant to improve relations between the two countries.

During a speech to the Israeli Knesset, Sarkozy said there can be no peace in the Middle East until Israel decides to share parts of Jerusalem with the Palestinians.

Sarkozy also called on Israel to stop settlements on the West Bank.

But he reassured lawmakers that they could count on France's support in stopping Iran's nuclear program.

Source: The Associated Press