I t is often said that U.S. presidents go overseas when their domestic standing goes down. With U.S. President George W. Bush's approval ratings hitting record lows, it should come then as no surprise that he seems to be racking up the miles as his term in office winds down.
Last week's trip to the Middle East — his second this year — seemed more like a valedictory tour than a working visit, with the president basking in adulation in Israel, where his standing is still in the stratosphere. That warm welcome was not evident elsewhere during his trip — a sign of the problems that plague his Middle East policy after eight years in office.
Mr. Bush visited Israel during its 60th anniversary celebration, and his remarks to the Knesset (Israel's Parliament) were emotional and revealing. He praised the survival of the Israel state and promised to remain a steadfast supporter. There has never been any doubt that the president identifies with the small country, beset by enemies that are yet to commit themselves to democratic principles. Perhaps only Japan forged a closer relationship with the United States during Mr. Bush's tenure.