As a Democrat, John Edwards has often spoken out against Bush's foreign policy.

John Edwards has been a critic of the war on terror, saying that it "has backfired and is now part of the problem". Although he voted for the War in Iraq in 2002, he has since apologised for this and taken an anti-war stance. Subsequently, he was against the surge of extra troops in 2007. Edward advocates a gradual withdrawal from Iraq. He is concerned by the high level of involvement of American businessmen in rebuilding Iraq, believing it would be better for the Iraqi economy and eventual peace if Iraqi contractors were used.

Despite his opposition to the War in Iraq, Edwards has argued for a "crack down" on Saudi Arabia, who he believes to have been funding terrorism, and also for a strengthening on the sanctions against Iran. Edwards sees Iran as a major threat to America due to its nuclear programme, but he is also concerned about the threat Iran poses to Israel. Edwards has also supported limited sanctions against Castro's Cuban regime, but is against any measures that would harm the Cuban people.

Edwards sees Israel as one of America's vital allies, an important tool in fighting terror. He has been a strong supporter of Israel through the senate, and would presumably continue this as president. He has spoken of his hopes to strengthen both political and economic ties between the US and Israel. Edwards supports a two-state solution between Israel and Palestine, and would like to be involved in creating this.

Edwards has taken a strong view on Russia, believing it to have become "a complete autocracy under Putin." However, he also believes a strategic partnership with Russia needs to be maintained to ensure global stability.

Edwards has put forward plans for the US to provide international aid to Muslim countries, as well as Africa and Latin America. He believes the US should use its position as a leader in the world for good, but also that international poverty is a cause of extremism, terrorism and instability. Edwards feels America should ensure that all children receive a primary education and that all people have access to clean drinking water. He also supports greater funding for AIDS prevention in Africa. In 2000 he voted against the bill to cap foreign aid at $12.7 billion.

Edwards believes the US needs to shape its foreign policy in order to regain its position as a country to look up to, rather than one to be feared. He has supported action against some nations, but believes America should put world stability first and should not take military action when it is likely to cause a further threat to America.

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