Barack Obama
Believes Israel's right to exist as a Jewish state should never be challenged. States on campaign Web site he "supports U.S. efforts to provide aid directly to the Palestinian people by bypassing any Hamas-led government that refuses to renounce violence and recognize Israel's right to exist." Calls on Iran to abandon its nuclear program, support for terror, and threats to Israel, or face sanctions and isolation. Believes in working toward a two-state solution between Israel and the Palestinians. Said that any agreement must preserve "Israel's identity as Jewish state" and "Jerusalem will remain the capital of Israel and it must remain undivided."

John McCain
Has stated he is "proudly pro-Israel." Believes Iran's pursuit of nuclear weapons poses an unacceptable risk to the United States and Israel. Says the United States must continue its "long-standing support for Israel, including by providing needed military equipment and technology and ensuring that Israel maintains its qualitative military edge." Calls for continued work toward peace between Israel and the Palestinians but believes the leadership of Hamas needs to be isolated. Believes peace between Israel and Lebanon "resides in a government that has a monopoly on authority within its country. That means no independent militias, no Hezbollah fighters, no weapons and equipment flowing to Hezbollah."