Obama pledges full support to Israel

Making his first official visit to Israel, US president Barack Obama pledged unwavering commitment to the security of the Jewish state where concern over a nuclear-armed Iran has clouded US-Israeli relations.

He also stressed the need for Middle East peace at the start of a three-day trip, which is aimed at resetting strained relations with the Israelis and Palestinians, but is not expected to provide new initiatives or substantial policy moves.

Descending from Air Force One in bright spring sunshine, Mr Obama briefly embraced Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu, with whom he has notoriously testy ties, before offering smiles and handshakes to waiting ranks of ministers.