70 percent in U.S. like Israel

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WASHINGTON, Sept. 29 (UPI) -- Seven out of 10 U.S. residents describe Israel as one of the country's strongest allies, a poll indicates.

Israel was ranked behind only Britain in favorability, the Jewish Telegraphic Agency reported, with 70 percent of those surveyed for the Foreign Policy Initiative saying they have a favorable view of the country.

When asked which country is the best U.S. ally "in the word," 54 percent picked Britain while Israel was a distant second at 15.9 percent.

Self-identified conservatives were more likely to have a favorable view of Israel, with 81 percent, compared to 68.5 percent of moderates and 63 percent of liberals.

The Foreign Policy Matters in 2012 poll was conducted Sept. 15-17 by Basswood Research. About 40 percent of respondents identified themselves as Republicans, another 40 percent said they were Democrats and 20 percent described themselves as independents.

The margin of error is 3.1 percentage points.