Speaking at the first presidential debate on foreign policy in Oxford, Mississippi, Senators John McCain (R-AZ) and Barack Obama (D-IL) discuss Iran and the diplomatic approach each would take when dealing with hostile nations.

Discussion Questions

1. Sen. McCain proposes a “League of Democracies” that would directly influence Iranian behavior. What other countries does he suggest might constitute such an organization? Why does Iran potentially pose a lethal threat to Israel? How would this organization help curb the threat that Iran poses to the Middle East and domestic security?
2. What does Sen. Obama say about the idea of a “League of Democracies”? According to Sen. Obama what is the single thing that has helped to strengthen Iran? Summarize Sen. Obama's plan to deal with Iran. How does his approach differ from McCain's?
3. Why does Sen. McCain disagree with Sen. Obama's plan to engage in direct negotiations with leaders like Mahmoud Ahmadinejad? What are “pre-conditions”? Which style would you employ if you were chief diplomat of the United States?
4. Click here to watch the entire first presidential debate in Oxford, Mississippi.