The historic election of Democrat Barack Obama as US President has been warmly welcomed by Israeli and Palestinian leaders alike.
Foreign Minister and Kadima leader Tzipi Livni said that the election as the first-ever African-American president was "a mark of merit for American democracy".
She added: "During Barack Obama's recent visit to Israel, and especially during the tour we conducted together in the city of Sderot, the people of Israel were impressed by his commitment to the peace and security of Israel."
Prime Minister Ehud Olmert praised his sweeping victory as "historic and impressive. America has again proven itself an example to world democracies."