Election 101: Where the GOP candidates stand on China, Iran, Israel and other key foreign issues

Take a look at where each of the GOP candidates stands on foreign policy and national security issues.

2. Rick Perry

Cliff Owen/AP
Republican presidential candidate, Texas Gov. Rick Perry addresses the 2012 Republican Presidential Candidates Forum hosted by the Republican Jewish Coalition, Wednesday, Dec. 7, 2011, in Washington.

China

Considers China America’s single greatest national security threat but believes communist China is “destined for the ash heap of history because it is not a country of virtues.”

Middle East

Lambasts Obama for “undermining” US-Israel relations and cites that as Exhibit A of “President Obama’s failed foreign policy.” Says Israel shouldn’t be forced into compromises for reaching peace with the Palestinians, but believes the Palestinians must meet key preconditions before being eligible for statehood.

Terrorism

Claims Iran, Hamas, and Hezbollah operate in Mexico with the United States as their target, making border security a top terrorism priority.

Defense spending

Opposes major cuts in military spending, saying it would endanger US troops.

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