US DECIDES VOTE 2008

IRAQ

Obama: Would begin withdrawing from Iraq one or two brigades a month and have all troops out within 16 months; wants to call a UN-led constitutional convention in Iraq that would not adjourn until reconciliation is reached. Favours refocusing energies on the al-Qaeda threat in Afghanistan and Pakistan.

Huckabee: Opposes setting a timetable for withdrawal of US troops from Iraq. Says he would be focused on 8220;winning8221; the war and withdrawal would have strategic consequences for the US and humanitarian consequences for Iraqis. Supports convening a regional summit for neighbouring countries of Iraq.

IRAN

Obama: Supports direct 8220;presidential diplomacy8221; with Iran without preconditions. Says he would offer Iran incentives, including WTO membership, and a move toward normal diplomatic relations if Iran abandons its nuclear programme.

Huckabee: Says he does not take the 8220;military option8221; off the table with regards to Iran, but other options are required so that a military strike does not become inevitable. Supports diplomatic efforts with China, India, Russia, South Korea and European countries.

AFGHANISTAN, PAKISTAN

Obama: Says he would refocus energies on al-Qaeda threat in Afghanistan and Pakistan; urges sending at least two more brigades to Afghanistan. Ruled out using nuclear weapons against al-Qaeda or Taliban targets in Afghanistan or Pakistan. Supports strikes against al-Qaeda targets in Pakistan.

Huckabee: Says the US does not have enough troops in Afghanistan. Says he would want to go after al-Qaeda 8220;safe havens8221; in Pakistan and believes the Bush administration has erred too much on the side of protecting President Pervez Musharraf.