Operators of Iolani Palace today expressed approval of state and city plans to increase security following two recent takeover attempts by Native Hawaiian groups.

"We are extremely pleased with the commitment from both the state and the city to increase security measures to protect the invaluable grounds, building and contents of Iolani Palace as well as to ensure the safety and peace of mind of our guests and employees," said Kippen de Alba Chu, executive director of the Friends of Iolani Palace.

"We have taken measures within the palace to step up security as well, and will continue to do so in the near future in close cooperation with the various law enforcement agencies," he said.

State Attorney General Mark Bennett said Tuesday that law enforcement officials are committed to protecting the historic area despite questions of jurisdiction. The comment came after a meeting that included Bennett, Gov. Linda Lingle and Police Chief Boisse Correa.

"The governor sought, and we received, an unconditional commitment from all law enforcement present ... to fight illegality and to protect all persons and property regardless of whether or not the illegality and the threat to persons and property occurs on state property, private property or county property," Bennett said.

The state is to beef up security after about two dozen people from the Kingdom of Hawaii took over the palace grounds and broke into the building Friday. Nearly 100 state and city law enforcement officers were on the scene Friday when 25 people were arrested, officials said.

The incursion came about four months after a takeover attempt by another group, the self-proclaimed Hawaiian Kingdom Government, which has continued to meet on the palace grounds with a permit.

Group leader Mahealani Kahau said was disappointed with the Kingdom of Hawaii, saying its actions were "disrespectful."