Kerry says Mideast violence could 'spin out of control'

US Secretary of State John Kerry

US Secretary of State John Kerry says the violence between Israelis and Palestinians could "spin out of control" unless they take immediate steps to ease tensions.

Kerry is back in the United States after visiting Israel and the West Bank for the first time in more than a year. 
He added that the US is pressing both sides to show a "genuine commitment" to a two-state peace solution.

Kerry told reporters after landing in Boston on Wednesday that the situation was close to reaching "a pivotal point" after months of violent confrontations.

Kerry said the sides were facing "important decisions" and the US hoped they made choices that would "advance the prospects for lasting peace".

On Tuesday, Kerry met separately with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas.