Expressing her solidarity with Israel, potential White House contender Sarah Palin toured Jerusalem’s holy sites as part of a swift visit to the Holy Land.

The leading US Republican, who was John McCain’s running mate in his failed 2008 campaign for President, sported a Star of David necklace during her two-day private tour here.

Palin rarely travels abroad and as such her quick stopover in Israel – which comes on the heels of another short visit to India – has many speculating that she is honing her foreign policy credentials ahead of a run for the US presidency next year.

Palin made plans to dine with Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu.

“As the world confronts sweeping changes and new realities, I look forward to meeting with Prime Minister Netanyahu to discuss the key issues facing his country, our ally Israel,” Palin said in a statement on her website.

“Israel is absolutely beautiful and it is overwhelming to see and touch the cornerstone of our faith and I am so grateful to get to be here,” Palin told reporters while in Jerusalem. “I’m very thankful to know that the Israeli and American link will grow in strength as we seek peace along with you.”