Israel's 2,500-member Black Hebrews in Dimona and Arad have expressed strong affinity for President-elect Barack Obama, whom several call their "brother." The Black Hebrews claim to be descendants of the Ten Lost Tribes. They remained illegal residents of Israel for years before the government backed down and awarded them legal status despite their not being Jewish according to Jewish law.

One member of the community said that Obama has "godliness." Most of the community, which in the past has been identified with polygamy and drug use, continue to speak English and are often easily distinguishable by their Afro-American culture.