Republican presidential candidate Rick Perry publicly criticized the Obama administration for how it has handled Israeli-Palestinian relations -- calling the president's Israel policy "misguided and dangerous."

Perry said he blames recent U.S. concessions for emboldening Palestinians to seek United Nations recognition.

"By proposing indirect talks, rather than between Palestinian leaders and Israel, this administration encouraged the Palestinians to shun direct talks," Perry said Tuesday.

"Secondly, it was wrong for this administration to suggest the 1967 border should be the starting point for Israel-Palestinian negotiations," he added.

Perry's pledged strong support for Israel, saying he considers the nation a strong ally.

Perry was speaking to supporters in New York, along with other GOP candidates.