Obama touts his pro-Israel credentials

President Obama said his administration had done more than any other to help Israel.

“I try not to pat myself too much on the back, but this administration has done more for the security of the State of Israel than any previous administration,” Obama said Wednesday during a campaign fundraiser at the New York home of Jack Rosen, chairman of the American Jewish Congress.

“We don’t compromise when it comes to Israel’s security,” the Democratic president said. “And that will continue.” He referred to Israel as the most important ally of the United States.

Obama, who is running for re-election in 2012, has been dogged by criticism of his Middle East diplomacy, especially by pro-Israel activists who believe he erred in pressuring the Netanyahu administration over West Bank settlement-building.