President Barack Obama has proven once again that he is an astute person who is keenly aware of the importance of diplomacy with the Muslims. He is not just tap-dancing around the issue of establishing diplomatic relationships with the Muslim world. Obama granted his first full TV interview since being sworn in — to Arabic satellite TV channel al Arabiya, whose Dubai-based signal reached 23 million viewers in the Middle East. In the interview, Obama reaffirmed American support for Israel. But he also spoke of a “new partnership” with the Arab world “based on mutual respect and mutual interest.” That speaks volumes on the type of inclusive administration the president intends to foster.
President Obama also made it clear that he was in a unique position as an American leader in dealing with the Muslim world. “I have Muslim members of my family,” he said. “I have lived in Muslim countries.”
The interview was the second time since becoming president that Obama has made a point to reach out to the Arab world. Last week, his first call to a foreign leader went to Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas.
In office less than a week, Obama has moved more rapidly than any predecessor to launch a vigorous diplomatic effort into the Arab-Israeli minefield. It was Obama’s second public appearance with former Sen. Mitchell and Secretary of State Hillary Clinton in the last five days.
Though it is unclear whether President Obama’s foray into peacemaking with the Arab world will be more successful that previous administrations, he has set a different tone. As you will recall, President George W. Bush waited seven years before trying to broker talks, rarely got involved personally and often sent his special envoys into the region without explicitly empowering them to speak for him. I must state however, that Obama’s actions have also raised hopes to dangerous levels, possibly, but we have to realize that no conflict in the Middle East can be settled without U.S. leadership.
Filed under: al Arabiya TV Channel, Arab World, Diplomacy, Dubai, Former President George W. Bush, Middle East, Muslims, Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas, President Barack H. Obama
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