For my 26 years in Congress, American foreign policy and America's role in the world have been at the center of my priorities. My lifelong commitment to Israel's security and a strong US-Israel relationship impacts my views and positions on foreign policy and national security issues. And I believe very strongly that Barack Obama is the best choice for president. Why?
Because by and large, John McCain represents a continuation of business as usual, while Obama offers the possibility of real change. While both McCain and Obama have outstanding records on issues affecting this small democracy, friends of Israel should want change because for a variety of reasons, Israel is less secure now than it was when President George W. Bush took office.
Whatever one might think about the wisdom of the war in Iraq (or the way it was managed), it is undeniable that Iran is stronger in its wake. The Bush administration's policy to prevent Iran from developing a nuclear weapons capability is not working, and Teheran continues to enrich uranium faster than sanctions are being applied to stop it. Iran's support for Hizbullah has reached new heights; it remains a major supplier of arms, money and training, and orchestrates Hizbullah's agenda. That terrorist organization has 40,000 rockets aimed at Israel and a far greater political grip on Lebanon than it had before. And Shi'ite Iran has greatly strengthened its relationship with Sunni Hamas.
In Gaza, President Bush failed to take meaningful steps to improve the lives of Palestinians after Israel's withdrawal. He and his administration diddled for more than four months as conditions there worsened. Meanwhile, against the advice of prime minister Ariel Sharon, and at the end even Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas, he insisted on going through with elections which resulted in a Hamas victory. His conflation of America's commitment to democracy with quick elections served neither the interests of Israel nor America.
Israel is stronger when America is stronger, yet America is not as strong now as it was eight years ago. The Bush administration's policies are unpopular at home and face tremendous hostility around the world, which makes it much more difficult for America to achieve its goals and defend Israel on the world stage. It handicaps us, for example, in our ability to get the Russians, Chinese and Europeans to support the tough and rigorous sanctions that could change the Iranian regime's behavior.
Prior to the 2000 presidential election, there was nothing in the background or experience of George W. Bush to suggest that he would develop the deep affection for Israel that he clearly holds. Regrettably, as we've seen over the past eight years, love for Israel and good intentions aren't enough. Wise policies and strong leadership are even more important.
Democratic presidential candidate Sen. Barack Obama addresses AIPAC Policy Conference 2008.
Photo: AP
I AM convinced that Barack Obama is also a true friend of Israel. Why do I say that? The people who know him best, the hard-nosed, tough-minded leaders of the pro-Israel community in Chicago, swear by him. Whether as a state legislator or a US senator, in votes, in issues he has pushed and in his public statements, his commitment to Israel is deep and broad.
He is very smart and has a level of intellectual curiosity that will serve us well. By observing his campaign we can see that he is very disciplined and has demonstrated his ability to develop and adhere to a coherent strategy, including the formation of an executive team that can perform at the highest level. He is a careful leader, who thinks through his positions before he acts.
Barack Obama's election as president will put a new face on America. His foreign policy will be to lead by example, regain the respect of our allies and encourage our friends to take more responsibility in fighting terrorism and the proliferation of nuclear, chemical and biological weapons and ballistic missiles, stabilizing Afghanistan and supporting development and democratization in Africa. He has repeatedly made clear that it is unacceptable for Iran to have a nuclear weapons capability and by regaining the respect of the international community, he will build support for that position.
He has the vision, the talent and the skills to formulate and implement foreign policy initiatives that will restore American credibility in the world, and thereby make America stronger. And nothing will enhance Israel's security and well-being more than a stronger America.
The writer, a Democratic congressman from California, is chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee.
