(ABC News / WSYR-TV) - President Obama arrived in Israel on a mission to repair tense relations with the crucial ally.
Shortly after touching down, Obama received a warm welcome from Israel's president and prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu.
Making his first visit to Israel as president, Obama's wasted little time expressing America's commitment to Israel's security.
"I see this visit as an opportunity to reaffirm the unbreakable bond between our nations,” Obama said.
The President will try to win over support of ordinary Israelis with a symbolic tour.
Shortly after he arrived, Mr. Obama visited an iron dome missile defense system. Later, he'll visit the gravesite of the founder of modern Zionism. Despite the choreography, some remain skeptical.
President Obama plans to discuss the threats posed by Iran and Syria with the Israeli prime minister.
The White House has lowered expectations for the trip, saying there will likely be no breakthroughs on the Israeli-Palestinians peace process.
After his stop in Israel, President Obama heads to the West Bank for a meeting with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, and then it's off to Turkey.
