Trump Supports ’Israel’ in AIPAC Speech

Local Editor

Republican presidential front-runner Donald Trump sought to present a more sober and measured profile Monday, as he spoke before one of the largest pro-"Israel" groups in the US.

"I speak to you today as a lifelong supporter and true friend of "Israel",'' he told the American "Israel" Public Affairs Committee [AIPAC]. "I'm a newcomer to politics, but not to backing the Jewish state."

Trump used his address to try to allay doubts about his support for "Israel" and about his mastery of foreign policy, addressing a group that included many skeptics not just of his foreign policy, but of his provocative campaign style.

He further launched a blunt critique of the US nuclear deal with Iran. "I know deal-making, and let me tell you this deal is catastrophic," he said.

Having drawn fire last year for giving an ambiguous response on a key litmus-test issue, Trump told the audience: "We will move the American Embassy to the eternal capital of the Jewish people, Jerusalem [al-Quds]."

Also Monday, in an interview with the Washington Post editorial board, Trump unveiled a partial list of his foreign-policy advisers, after drawing criticism for saying he is his own best adviser when it comes to international affairs.

Trump addressed AIPAC just a few hours after Democratic front-runner Hillary Clinton lambasted her potential Republican presidential rival as an unreliable partner for "Israel" and dangerously unqualified to be president.

Source: News Agencies, Edited by website team