Tipsheet

Where in the World?

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This is the view from my hotel. Israel being as small as it is, there's likely something internationally significant in this picture, but I don't know my geography well enough yet to tell you what. I'll keep you posted, though.

I'm in Israel for the week, on a trip with a handful of other journalists run by American Israel Education Foundation, which is affiliated with AIPAC. Also with me, Michael Goldfarb of the Weekly Standard, Richard Starr of the Standard, James Kirchick of TNR (yes, that James Kirchick, Ron Paul commenters), a couple Slate writers, a Politico editor, and Commentary blogger Noah Pollak.

We're meeting with a vast array of local intelligence officials, politicians, Abbas' chief of staff, and regular Israelis to get an understanding of the country and its complex geopolitical position. We're walking the Old City of Jerusalem today, and traveling throughout the country all week long.

I made it to Israel, but my bags didn't, so I have the clothes on my back, a pair of slacks and toiletries purchased at a Jerusalem mall (much like an American mall, but "KFC" looks different in Hebrew), and my still camera and laptop. I'll have plenty of pictures, and as much writing as I can get done while I'm here. If my video camera shows up, I'll try to post video, too.

In the meantime, enjoy the never-ending saga of Hillary and Obama.