The geopolitical dynamics and instability in the Middle East makes that region an important element of any US president’s foreign policy, says Timothy Seidel. But the major parties are still trading in stereotypes, not solutions.

As focus turns to the climax of the Republican convention and the running mate by their candidate, John McCain, Democrat Barack Obama is turning his attention to winning over sceptics - including some religious voters.

US Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama is today making an unprecedented campaign pitch in Berlin, Germany, and has drawn an enthusiastic crowd of 100,000. But how will this go down in the USA?