Obama, AIPAC, and Israel

Obama gave a forceful speech at the AIPAC conference today, reiterating his firm support for Israel. While he also spoke about the need for a Palestinian state and an end to further Israeli settlements in the West Bank, he made clear that he feels Jerusalem should be the Israeli capital and remain undivided. And he stated clearly the conditions under which he'd meet with Iran and described the results of Bush's failed Mideast policies, including a more powerful Iran. (More here and here.)

Clinton, meanwhile, also spoke before AIPAC and took a conciliatory tone: “It is an honor to call him my friend, and let me be very clear, I know that Sen. Obama will be a good friend to Israel.”

And Representative Rahm Emanuel of Illinois endorsed Obama. Emanuel, formerly an Israeli soldier, is one of the strongest advocates for Israel in Congress.