McCain thinks it shows experience that he has travelled to these countries. I'm not sure that really matters to me. Thoughts from readers?

McCain: Iran with nukes is an existential threat to Israel. We could and should impose heavy sanctions on Iran. Blames Iran for many terrorist actions in Iraq and abroad.

Obama: Believes some elements of the Iran military are terrorist organizations. believes Iran should not be allowed to get nukes. Believes that we should have direct talks with Iran.

McCain: We cannot have talks without preconditions. Claims that that would legitimize illegal activities of rogue states.

Obama was prepared for that attack and he was ready with a rebuttal citing the widespread agreement among former secs of state that talks should occur. Uses N. Korea as an example of what happens when talks do not happen. Now he takes a cheap shot about McCain's Spain slip-up. That was unnecessary.

McCain is harping on Iran's hate for Israel.

now they're both quibbling over top-level vs low level talks.