Rep. Michele Bachmann (R-Minn.), a likely Republican presidential candidate, believes U.S. foreign policy should be based, at least in part, by fears of divine curses. No, I’m not kidding.

“I am convinced in my heart and in my mind that if the United States fails to stand with Israel, that is the end of the United States … [W]e have to show that we are inextricably entwined, that as a nation we have been blessed because of our relationship with Israel, and if we reject Israel, then there is a curse that comes into play.

“And my husband and I are both Christians, and we believe very strongly the verse from Genesis [Genesis 12:3], we believe very strongly that nations also receive blessings as they bless Israel.”

For context, it’s worth noting that Bachmann made the remarks last week in a speech to the Republican Jewish Coalition, and weren’t related to President Obama’s speech on U.S. policy in the Middle East.

She simply fears foreign-policy-driven curses in general.

Remember, Republicans like to pretend that they’re the “serious” party when it comes to international affairs.

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Follow Steve on Twitter @stevebenen. Steve Benen is a producer at MSNBC's The Rachel Maddow Show. He was the principal contributor to the Washington Monthly's Political Animal blog from August 2008 until January 2012.