So far as position on foreign policy and national security issues is concerned, Barack Obama is a more promising candidate than McCain, especially towards commitment to Israel’s security and a strong US-Israel relationship.

Israel is stronger when America is stronger, but America is not as strong now as it was eight years back. Israel is even less secure now than it was when President Bush took office, and McCain represents a continuation of business as usual, while Obama offers the possibility of real change.

Though both McCain and Obama have outstanding records on issues affecting this small democracy, the ‘change’ option appears to be more desirable. The Bush administration’s policies are unpopular and face tremendous hostility around the world, which makes it much more difficult for America defend Israel in the global scenario.

Though Bush has developed a deep affection for Israel after the 2000 presidential election, regrettably, over the past eight years, his love for Israel and good intentions are not enough.

What is required more than anything else is wise policies and strong leadership, which Obama has no dearth of. The people who know him best, the hard-nosed, tough-minded leaders of the pro-Israel community in Chicago, swear by him. Both as a state legislator and a Senator, Obama has shown his deep and broad commitment to Israel - in votes, in issues he has pushed and in his public statements.

Obama has a level of intellectual curiosity that will serve Israel well. His discipline and ability to develop and adhere to a coherent strategy make him a careful leader, who thinks through his positions before he acts.