Deputy FM: Israel has no favorite in US election

Israeli Deputy Foreign Minister Danny Ayalon said Wednesday that Israel has no preference regarding the outcome of the upcoming U.S. presidential election. Ayalon was quoted by Israel Radio as saying that Israel is interested in what is best for the United States, and does not support any nominee. "It's the Americans' right to decide for themselves who would lead them," Ayalon said. Ayalon, who was the Israeli ambassador to the United States between 2002 and 2006, said it is a "misconception" if it appears that Israel is favoring any candidate, referring to accusations against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's preference towards the Republican candidate for presidency, Mitt Romney. Netanyahu and Romney are regarded as ideologically similar, and Romney has reiterated throughout his campaign the U.S. devotion to Israel. U.S.-Israeli diplomatic ties have been tense in recent months, over outspoken disagreement between the Israeli and U.S. governments on how to address the Iranian nuclear issue. Netanyahu advocated a possible Israeli military strike without U.S. backing, while Washington sent over diplomats in hopes of averting such an action, at least before the elections.