There is plenty of commentary and speculation in this morning’s dailies ahead of US President Obama’s visit to Israel and the region which begins today. The Telegraph includes a preview predicting that Obama faces a difficult battle if he intends to advance the peace process between Israel and the Palestinians. An editorial calls Obama’s visit to Israel “overdue” and suggests that unless the US engages more directly with the Middle East, US influence in the region may wane over the coming decade. The Guardian meanwhile suggests that US Secretary of State John Kerry is pushing for more direct regional involvement. The Financial Times includes two pieces, one suggesting that Obama will find it tough to woo the Israeli public and the other highlighting criticism levelled by a Palestinian legislator, claiming that Obama’s itinerary is weighted in Israel’s favour. The Independent includes an editorial which says that although Obama’s visit is designed to showcase his support for Israel, the US President must show increased interest in the Middle East as a whole. There is also an article by Robert Fisk, satirical in style, which is critical of Obama’s support of Israel. Meanwhile, the Independent i includes a brief summary of US media commentary on the Obama visit.

The Times and the online editions of the Guardian, Telegraph and Financial Times cover an alleged chemical attack in the major Syrian city of Aleppo. All reports agree that around 25 people died in a rocket attack in a government-held area of the city, many having suffered respiratory problems. Both Syria’s government and opposition forces seeking the removal of President Assad have accused the other of using chemical weapons. However, the Telegraph suggests that the incident may have been the result of a chemical leak due to the fighting. The Russian government pointed the finger at opposition forces, while UK and United States officials reiterated that there would be serious consequences if reports of chemical weapons use were confirmed. The Times suggest that the incident has shifted Syria to the top of the agenda for Obama’s talks with Israeli officials.

The Israeli media this morning is dominated by Obama’s visit. All titles make this their top story and include detailed commentary and analysis of the trip. Yediot Ahronot has the word “welcome” emblazoned on its front page in both Hebrew and English. Maariv highlights the reluctance of the United States to release convicted Israeli spy Jonathan Pollard from an American prison, where he is currently serving a life sentence. In Yediot Ahronot, Eitan Haber writes a piece published in both Hebrew and English praising US support for Israel. However, in the same publication, Orly Azulai criticises Obama for bringing “a suitcase full of words” with him rather than a peace plan. Alex Fishman, also writing in Yediot Ahronot details John Kerry’s initiative to enlist support for a peace deal. Israel Radio News says that the main issues on the agenda between Obama and Israeli officials will be Iran’s nuclear development, the ongoing violence in Syria and the diplomatic process with the Palestinians. The same outlet also notes that 5,000 Israeli police are being deployed to help provide security for Obama during his visit.

Meanwhile, Israel Hayom and Israel Radio News also report on the alleged use of chemical weapons in Syria yesterday, which if confirmed would be the first incident of its kind during the two-year conflict.