President Barack Obama delivered an appeal for unity from the campus of Cairo University. Photos by Pablo Martinez Monsivais / AP.
by Christi Parsons and Mark Silva and updated
CAIRO -- President Barack Obama, calling for "a new beginning between the United States and Muslims around the world,'' said in a long-promised and widely watched address from Cairo today that the "cycle of suspicion and discord must end.''
Obama acknowledged the mistrust that both the West and Muslim nations hold for one another: The "fear and mistrust'' in the United States stemming from the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, carried out by "violent extremists," and the alienation of Muslim nations bred by "colonialism'' and "sweeping change.''
"Whatever we think of the past,'' the president said to a theater audience frequently applauding his repeated appeals for mutual understanding, "we must not be prisoners to it.''
This American president born of a Muslim father from Kenya and white mother from Kansas and raised for part of his childhood in Indonesia flatly declared that the U.S. is "not at war with Islam.'' The readiness of the U.S. to fulfill its guiding principles, he said, is demonstrated by the fact that "an African American with the name Barack Hussein Obama could be elected president.''
In the morning before the televised address delivered from the campus of Cairo University, the president met with Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak at the Quba Palace before touring the Sultan Hassan Mosque in Cairo.
The president walked with his arms crossed over his chest with Secretary of State Hillary Clinton at his side wearing a headscarf, as a woman guided them through the historic building.
The city was on heightened security as the president made his way toward Cairo University for his speech, with soldiers lining the sidewalks and streets closed off to traffic.
After their morning meeting , Mubarak told reporters that he and Obama had discussed "all problems" of the region and that he expects the conversation to be just the first of many.
"We discussed everything candidly and frankly without any reservation," Mubarak said. "But there are other meetings that will take place later either in the United States of America or anywhere else."
Read the rest of Christi Parsons' report from Cairo and immediate reaction below the page-fold, and see the speech here, courtesy of MSNBC:
Visit msnbc.com for Breaking News, World News, and News about the Economy
For Obama's nearly hour-long speech, the State Department opened telephone lines for callers worldwide to register for free text messages of the speech in Arabic, Persian, Urdu and English. The also were posting the speech in nine other languages.
The president's address, at least among its immediate audience, had an apparent impact on those watching Obama.
"The fact that he talks about tolerance, and cited verses from the Koran and the Bible, makes me feel he is aware how people think," said Michael Fayek, 27, a recent university graduate of Cairo's Ain Shams University, after watching the speech. "I admired very much the suggestion that Jews, Christians and Muslims should live together in peace."
Fayek, who is Christian, said he wants to think more about the "American dogma" that Obama espoused in the speech. But his initial impression is that the president is not "inserting himself" into regional affairs in the same way that his predecessor did. "The one part I was most impressed by," he said, "is that he really supports tolerance."
Obama directly confronted the historical "tension'' that has divided the two worlds, as well as the most recent conflicts.
While condemning the terrorist attacks of 9/11, an "enormous trauma'' for the American people, he also acknowledged that the U.S.-led invasion of Iraq had been "a war of choice,'' and said the U.S. seeks no permanent bases in Iraq or Afghanistan. He pledged to remove all American troops from Iraq by 2012.
His commitment to ban "torture" in the interrogation of detainees and to close the U.S. military-run prison at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, was applauded. So was his appeal for a lasting peace between Israelis and Palestinians - asserting that just as Israel has a right to exist, Palestinians deserve a state of their own.
Just as the death of civilians in the Sept. 11 attacks cannot be justified, Obama said, so is the denial of the Holocaust "baseless, ignorant and hateful." Obama plans to visit the Nazi concentration camp at Buchenwald this week, on his way to commemoration of the 65th anniversary of the allied landing at Normandy.
Threats to annihilate Israel and repetition of hateful stereotypes of Jewish people are "deeply wrong," the president told his audience in Cairo. Yet Obama also emphasized the suffering of Palestinians who have been dislocated from their homes and who suffer the daily humiliations of occupation.
Palestinians must abandon violence, he said, and Israel must stop its settlements in Palestinian territory. Arab states must help Palestinians develop institutions that will sustain their state.
"So let there be no doubt, the situation for the Palestinian people is intolerable," the president said. "America will not turn our backs on the legitimate Palestinian aspiration for dignity, opportunity, and a state of their own."
The presidentdirectly confronted several points of tension between the West and Muslim nations, among them the war in Iraq and the standoff with Iran over nuclear development.
"We meet at a time of tension between the United States and Muslims around the world - tension rooted in historical forces that go beyond any current policy debate,'' Obama said. "The relationship between Islam and the West includes centuries of co-existence and cooperation, but also conflict and religious wars.
"More recently, tension has been fed by colonialism that denied rights and opportunities to many Muslims, and a Cold War in which Muslim-majority countries were too often treated as proxies without regard to their own aspirations,'' he said. "The sweeping change brought by modernity and globalization led many Muslims to view the West as hostile to the traditions of Islam.
"Violent extremists have exploited these tensions in a small but potent minority of Muslims,'' Obama said. "The attacks of September 11th, 2001 and the continued efforts of these extremists to engage in violence against civilians has led some in my country to view Islam as inevitably hostile not only to America and Western countries, but also to human rights. All this has bred more fear and more mistrust.
"So long as our relationship is defined by our differences, we will empower those who sow hatred rather than peace, and who promote conflict rather than the cooperation that can help all of our people achieve justice and prosperity,'' he said. "This cycle of suspicion and discord must end.
"I have come here to Cairo to seek a new beginning between the United States and Muslims around the world, one based on mutual interest and mutual respect and one based upon the truth that America and Islam are not exclusive and need not be in competition,'' the president told a world audience, in an address not only broadcast on television but also disseminated across Websites. "Instead they overlap, and share common principles - principles of justice and progress, tolerance and the dignity of all human beings.''
No one speech will change any of this, the White House has readily acknowledged - with the president pointing out the amount of publicity that has attached to this speech.
"Change cannot happen overnight,'' Obama said. "No single speech can eradicate years of mistrust, nor can I answer in the time that I have all the complex questions that brought us to this point.
The president drew applause from his audience filling an ornate campus auditorium when he said: "As the Holy Koran tells us, "Be conscious of God and speak always the truth."
The president told his own personal tale, including his childhood years in the largest Muslim nation:
"I am a Christian, but my father came from a Kenyan family that includes generations of Muslims. As a boy, I spent several years in Indonesia and heard the call of the azaan at the break of dawn and the fall of dusk.''
He praised the "timeless poetry'' and "cherished music of the Islamic world's cultural traditions. And he saluted a political history that includes the first nation to recognize the establishment of the young United States, Morocco, in 1796. Thomas Jefferson, he said, had kept a Koran in his library, and the first Muslim-American elected to Congress took his oath on that Koran.
The president's address was punctuated with applause as he appealed to both Americans and residents of Muslim nations to seek a mutual respect. "I consider it part of my responsibility as president of the United States to fight against negative stereotypes of Islam wherever they appear,'' he said to applause, and he was cheered as he said: "Just as Muslims do not fit a crude stereotype, America is not the crude stereotype of a self-interested empire.''
It is "a stain on our collective conscience,'' Obama said, when people are killed any place in the world.
"This is a difficult responsibility to embrace,'' he said. "For human history has often been a record of nations and tribes, and yes, religions, subjugating one another to serve their own interests. Yet in this new age, such attitudes are self-defeating.''
While explaining U.S. plans for the drawdown of troops in Iraq and explaining its strategy in Afghanistan, the president also called on both Israel and the Palestinians to meet the commitments needed to secure a lasting peace and two independent nations.
"Israel must take concrete steps to enable such progress,'' he said, and Arab nations must not use the conflict to "distract'' the region from other problems. "America will align our policies with those who pursue peace,'' he said, "and we will say in public what we say in private, to Israelis, Palestinians and Arabs.''
"It is time for us to act on what everyone knows to be true,'' he said. "Too many tears have been shed, too much blood has been shed... All of us must live for the day when the mothers of Israelis and the mothers of Palestinians can see their children grow up in peace.''
He also addressed the "tension'' between the United States and Iran, and a goal of ridding the world of nuclear weapons.
And he addressed a need for greater respect for human rights worldwide. While hailing democracy, he said, "America does not presume to know what is best for everyone.''
"But I do have an unyielding belief that all people yearn for certain things: The ability to speak your mind and have a say in how you are governed, confidence in the rule of law and the equal administration of justice, government that is transparent and doesn't steal from the people; the freedom to live as you choose. Those are not just American ideas, they are human rights, and that is why we will support them everywhere.''
"The issues that I have described will not be easy to address,'' Obama said. "But we have a responsibility to join together on behalf of the world we seek - a world where extremists no longer threaten our people, and American troops have come home, a world where Israelis and Palestinians are each secure in a state of their own, and nuclear energy is used for peaceful purposes, a world where governments serve their citizens, and the rights of all God's children are respected.
"Those are mutual interests,'' the president said. "That is the world we seek. But we can only achieve it together. '
Comments
Guantanamo, Iraq, rendition , Iran,...He'll realize the error of his ways with regards to who the enemies and allies are. Too bad innocent people will lose their lives because of his appeasement in the meantime.
Posted by: RCK | June 4, 2009 8:00 AM
I hope he was pushing GM cars for us!
Posted by: TheDownward Spiral | June 4, 2009 8:11 AM
the NWO Neville Chamberlin
America the B-HO is a fraud. 52% of you were duped, he is not what he pretends to be.
he is destroying america faster than our enemies can.
lets hope we make it to 2012 and remove the fraud!
Posted by: jacko | June 4, 2009 8:33 AM
Israel's illegal settlements in Patestinian territory bear a striking resemblance to white settlements in Indian Territory in North America. And what happened to the Cherokees in the Great Smokies, and to the "red man's land" in Oklahoma? If Obama's going to have any sway with Israel, he'll have to adopt a "do as I say, not as we did" stance. I can just see some Israeli scholar relate with glee what the United States of America did to the rights of Native Americans in the 1800's.
Posted by: JeanSC598 | June 4, 2009 8:38 AM
Well it is obvious when listening to Faux News this hasn't gone over well with small minded. Reaching out is not something the right does well as evident in their numbers here at home. As you can see, RCK is already showing how proud he is of Guantanamo, Iraq, rendition , Iran. For your information RCK.....innocent people have already lost their lives for the testosterone guided leadership you have brought to America. Thankfully, America is waking up to the small minded leadership and agree with the fact people look forward to what we will build, not what we destroy.
Posted by: bill r. | June 4, 2009 8:43 AM
One must wonder why he is so worried about appeasing the Muslims. Isn't this something like the third time he has addressed a speech to them saying America wants to be friends? He really likes showing his lack of understanding and knowledge, almost as much as Bush. The ones that are a threat to us do not listen to our words. They do not care. Their call is greater. They will not listen to what he says, in fact they are likely to take it as a sign of weakness. Can you say Let's Perpetuate The Hatred?
Posted by: Paul | June 4, 2009 8:45 AM
Great start. President Obama has a long way to go, but his first steps are strong and in the right direction.
Posted by: Gus | June 4, 2009 8:54 AM
How do you rate Obama's speech to Muslims from Egypt?
http://www.youpolls.com/details.asp?pid=5434
.
Posted by: Blake | June 4, 2009 8:56 AM
This idiot is going to destroy the United States!!
Posted by: LT Bob | June 4, 2009 8:58 AM
It will be a big mistake if Obama sells out Israel for his Muslim Brotherhood.
Posted by: Inky | June 4, 2009 9:03 AM
This speech was aimed at the moderate, mainstream people of the world. Both Islamic radicals and neo cons will attack it.
Posted by: bill r. | June 4, 2009 9:06 AM
A good first step in Middle East diplomacy for Obama. A welcomed change from the cowboy "Bring 'em on!" "You're either with us or against us" all hat and no cattle crap we heard from Bush. Let the narrow-minded, culturally ignorant, small world view conservatives label Obama an "appeaser" all they want. They may be loud and angry, but they've become increasingly irrelevent.
Posted by: Carol A. | June 4, 2009 9:21 AM
What I find absurd is this line "tension has been fed by colonialism that denied rights and opportunities to many Muslims." If you look at the current Muslim World, where better than half of the population (female) is denied basic civil rights, where the only education available is religious in the Masadras, where citizenship rights are contingent on being the correct religion, and where religous conversions are punishable by death, I think that while, yes, the colonial era did have a major impact on these countries, their current leaders are as much, if not more, to blame for the situation in the world.
Posted by: Wayne | June 4, 2009 9:33 AM
"But I do have an unyielding belief that all people yearn for certain things: The ability to speak your mind and have a say in how you are governed, confidence in the rule of law and the equal administration of justice, government that is transparent and doesn't steal from the people; the freedom to live as you choose. Those are not just American ideas, they are human rights, and that is why we will support them everywhere.''
Yeah- except in Chicago.
Posted by: Citizen | June 4, 2009 9:35 AM
For those who think that a speech is going to change the radical Muslim populations around the planet, please take a seat at the back of the bus and we'll get to you later.
While president Obama was making his nicey speech to all the nicey Muslims (of which there are hundreds of millions), Osama was spreading the "Kill Americans" message as strong as ever.
So to you people at the back of the bus, stay back there and feel safe as the rest of free world continues to fight back the bad guys and makes no apologies for standing up for democracy and the fair treatment of all human beings.
Evil is not going away, no matter how many nice speeches are given and no matter where they are delivered.
To the pathetic driveling snips who complain and cry that innocent people have already lost their lives for the testosterone guided leadership, you sit on your duffs while another 21,000 Americans are sent off to die in Obama's war - for what? Where's the anger little bill?
Posted by: springfield | June 4, 2009 9:40 AM
All of us need to understand that Israel has a lot to overcome in understanding the Muslims who still support the Nazi mentality, got sand in their face when they returned Gaza that started the day Israel became a State and continued through 1967. Israel has to forgive the days when Jordan took over what was to be the International City of Jerusalem and forbade Jews access to their holy sites and destroyed much of the Jewish heritage in the area. The anger is not one sided and neither is the history. The realism is that Israel is but one small Jewish State and that that the Jewish population is small. Muslims control many States, and and have an enormous world population. More Jews were displaced from their homes when Israel was created than were Muslims. Jews are not allowed in more countries than are Muslims. There is a lot to overcome in both camps.
Obama has taken on a big task.
Posted by: cindylou | June 4, 2009 9:40 AM
Bill R, I dont know how you can still defend this guy. He has lied on basically every issue he campaigned on. I voted for him because I thought he would keep his promise to "go through the budget line by line an eliminate wasteful spending." Instead the White House is predicting almost a $2 TRILLION deficit for the next four years. So if by eliminate wasteful spending he meant increase the deficit by 65% then I guess he is right on track. I will NOT be voting for him again in 2012, and I apologize to everyone for my mistake.
Relating to the article, look at what appeasement has gotten Europe. The UK has bowed to Muslim pressure more than most countries. They have Sharia law in some parts of their cities. Their leaders will not go into certain parts of their cities "out of respect". Instead they will meet the "leaders" of these areas outside these areas as if they were meeting with a foreign official. They let these non-integrated immigrants run their country by screaming "racism" every time they dont get their way. Did this appeasement prevent the London bombings? Did it prevent multiple people being arrested for trying to blow up British Airways jets? Did Spanish appeasement prevent the Madrid bombings? What he is doing is a very slippery slope.
Posted by: Steve | June 4, 2009 9:40 AM
Your exactly right bill r. He is speaking to the middle not the extremists. Lets face it, radicalism on both aisles, and I mean Muslim and Christian conservatives, are still a minority but are relentlessly strong willed and loud-mouthed. Those types will NEVER look at both side rationally. Or try to understand one-another.
Thankfully, most rational people, including Muslims are in the middle and are encouraged by this outreach by Obama. Finally, a sound mind in the White House!
Posted by: M. Kenney | June 4, 2009 10:06 AM
The President outlined seven points - perhaps the first outline of the emerging Obama Doctrine. He has set the tone for future debate. ........
http://thefiresidepost.com/2009/06/04/the-seven-points-of-obamas-cairo-speech/
Posted by: Ohg Rea Tone | June 4, 2009 10:11 AM
Very refreshing to have this man represent our country. He speaks thoughtfully and intelligently and is taking the correct approach to creating alliances in the middle east. Isreal is NOT the only country in the region and we will benefit greatly by taking a more even handed stance in the region. All you neo-cons crying out "He Is Destorying America" couldnt be more wrong.
Posted by: ChiChi | June 4, 2009 10:15 AM
POTUS: someone we can be proud of again.
Posted by: Kenneth Janowski | June 4, 2009 10:18 AM
Terrorists are employed by terrorists. That is their profession.
They are unable and unwilling to become a social partner with the rest of us.
These people and their handlers must be removed from the world.
They need to be locked up and never allowed to fulfill their mad dreams of destruction.
They are a social cancer bent on destruction only. They are killers!
Posted by: Thomasburns | June 4, 2009 10:23 AM
I thought it was a great speech, I'm glad he's extending the olive branch to the Muslim world. Let's hope that Iran doesn't reelect the nut job that's in there now and that the Jews stop their settlements.
Posted by: Tressels Sweater Vest | June 4, 2009 10:29 AM
For those who think that a speech is going to change the radical Muslim populations around the planet, please take a seat at the back of the bus and we'll get to you later.
Posted by: springfield | June 4, 2009 9:40 AM
As I stated, this speech will not change the radical. Not Islamic nor neo con. There was another speech given against this idea, it was given by........Osama Bin Laden. It seems you have strange bedfellows.
Posted by: bill r. | June 4, 2009 10:32 AM
Anyone who believes we are on the right track is unable to understand that there are some enemies you can't win over with an olive branch. Hitler is a good example. Iran is another. If we allow Iran to develop nuclear weapons, they will destroy Israel. Period. By the time Obama is through with this country, even the left will want Bush back.
Posted by: crobb | June 4, 2009 10:46 AM
Obama raises the bar for international politicians just as he raised the bar for American politicians.
It's fascinating the amount of projection evident in some of the above posts. RCK, Jacko, Ink---you know who you are.
Not so much racism, though that is probably part of it.
Actually beyond projection.
It is the phenemon Pushkin explored in that play, "Mozart and Salieri".
They just can't acknowledge such excellence in another human being.
It highlights their own inadequacies and makes them want to destroy him.
Get help!
Posted by: ornery | June 4, 2009 10:49 AM
“Well it is obvious when listening to Faux News this hasn't gone over well with small minded.”
* * * * *
Posted by: bill r. | June 4, 2009 8:43 AM
.
It’s interesting you put it that way, bill. The response from the Muslim world was decidedly mixed. It encouraged many Muslims to hope. “A nice start,” was some of the responses. But that was not always the case. A Lebanese legislator and Hezbollah spokesperson said, “The Islamic world does not need moral or political sermons. It needs a fundamental change in American policy …” Iran’s response was similar (and I paraphrase): Nice speech, but when is America going to change? This is hardly surprising, as it was the same response Iran gave last time BHO spoke about American policy in the Middle East. Ditto from Somalia: “Obama's speech is useless unless he stops his political interference with Somalia and the Muslim world …” Others said something to the effect of, “Oh yeah? Then when is he going to pull U.S. troops out of Iraq and Afghanistan.” The response of one Israeli legislator was the most interesting of the bunch. Knesset member Dr. Michael Ben-Ari declared, “[W]e survived Pharaoh; we will survive this.”
.
In other words, bill, not everyone believes the words of “the Savior” will translate into any positive change in foreign policy. Many remain skeptical, observing that “speeches” don’t equal “change.” (This is a lesson from the Muslim world that we could have used last year.) Others simply used the occasion of the speech as an opportunity to vent their particular political views regarding the United States’ foreign policy in various regions. Are they small minded too, bill?
Posted by: John W. | June 4, 2009 10:50 AM
Maybe potus can convince muslims israel has a right to exist. After all, he convinced Bill R. that he's doing a great job despite the fact that he did an about face on Guantanimo, Iraq, torture (which he now outsources to other countries via rendition). He convinced Bill R. he wouldn't raise taxes on the middle class, although he plans on doing it indirectly via cap and trade, taxing health benefits, raising the gas tax, etc. All of which hurt the poor, not the rich. He convinced Bill he follows the rule of law, while he tears up contracts with bondholders at GM and Chrysler & fired the CEO although no law exists giving him the power to do so.
Obama is certainly spectacular at blurring the truth in order to gain the loyal following of the ignorant masses.
Posted by: RCK | June 4, 2009 10:56 AM
Actually he's speaking to the YOUTH.
As he did to the American electorate last year.
Posted by: ornery | June 4, 2009 10:58 AM
Posted by: Steve | June 4, 2009 9:40 AM
I voted for Obama on a four year plan......not four months. I am a firm believer that Rome can not be built in a day. What you see as appeasement, I see as reaching out to the middle moderates. If any slope is slippery it is one of believing Muslims must either be tamed, or eradicated.
Posted by: bill r. | June 4, 2009 11:01 AM
Another fancy speech to a group of people who support and condone terrorism. The extreme Muslims will take this speech as an opportunity to do harm to the U.S. and consider Obama weak and perhaps part of them since he is of a Muslim father. He is not a Christian as he professes. This is a guy who spent Christmas in Hawaii and didn't attend church on a holy day, so I really can't believe him when he professes that he is Christian. He couldn't even handle being a Muslim with all of the prayers that they do, so he can't be that either. President Obama does not know who he is.
Posted by: Whatever | June 4, 2009 11:09 AM
It was a nice speech.
It does not change the fact that "Western Civilization Really Is At Risk With Muslim Extremists" which is the title of an article by Sam Harris -yes THAT Sam Harris, the prominent american atheist - in the Los Angeles Times of September 18, 2006.
Some quotes.
"My correspondence with liberals has convinced me that liberalism has grown dangerously out of touch with the realities of our world - specifically with what devout Muslims believe about the West, about paradise and about the ultimate ascendance of their faith.
On questions of national security, I am now as wary of my fellow liberals as I am of the religious demagogues on the Christian right.
This may seem like frank acquiescence to the charge that "liberals are soft on terrorism." It is, and they are.
A CULT OF DEATH IS FORMING IN THE MUSLIM WORLD - FOR REASONS THAT ARE PERFECTLY EXPLICABLE IN TERMS OF THE ISLAMIC DOCTRINES OF MARTYRDOM AND JIHAD. THE TRUTH IS THAT WE ARE NOT FIGHTING A 'WAR ON TERROR.' WE ARE FIGHTING A PESTILENTIAL THEOLOGY AND A LONGING FOR PARADISE." (emphasis mine)
The full title of the article - Head In The Sand Liberals - Western Civilization really IS at risk with Muslim Extremists
Posted by: Terry | June 4, 2009 11:15 AM
Obama made yet another campaign speech saying everyone must change. Okay Obama name specifics as to how you are going to change the Middle East crisis. Don't put the blinders over every Muslin's head and say okay I made my speech, and by the way I asked the Jews not to build anymore townhouses which should do the trick, By the way the U.S. government gave 300 million of our hard earned tax dollars to help the Palestine's, and look at he results.
Posted by: clarence | June 4, 2009 11:15 AM
To the pathetic driveling snips who complain and cry that innocent people have already lost their lives for the testosterone guided leadership, you sit on your duffs while another 21,000 Americans are sent off to die in Obama's war - for what? Where's the anger little bill?
Posted by: springfield | June 4, 2009 9:40 AM
No anger...but a little humor. I find your post and thoughts a joke. I have always found that those who wish to throw the names around of unpatriotic, are usually the ones never found in battle. I fought my battles for my country and my guess is many of the hard core right haven't. Like Cheney, Rush, and the rest of the rights leadership they are quick to label yet never back it up with actions. So much for the religious casting of a stone. Then I get a great laugh at "Obamas" war. You whine and moan about radical Al-Qaeda, yet refuse to see the justice in the real war against those who brought 9/11. The war that would have been over had you and the rest of that testosterone driven leadership hadn't taken your eye off of for some sort of twisted, bungled, misguided reasons. Your leadership tortured to make some sort of connection to Iraq that even now Cheney agrees wasn't there. Bravo! Your words speak volumes and I only look for the mute button.
Posted by: bill r. | June 4, 2009 11:17 AM
Phenomenal, historic speech which will help put Mideast relations back on the right footing.
Posted by: Marty | June 4, 2009 11:19 AM
Terrorists are employed by terrorists.
Posted by: Thomasburns | June 4, 2009 10:23 AM
No one disagrees with that. What we do disagree on is that you consider a whole religion as terrorists...hell....you consider those Americans on the left as terrorists.
Posted by: bill r. | June 4, 2009 11:23 AM
All these glowing comments by the obama supporters !!!! My My......in the Middle East Muslims have being fighting for hunderds of years.....America has been hated by that part of the world long before President Bush arrived. We were hated during President Clinton's, President Bush (41), President Ragen, President Carter etc administrations. Why of why would you possibly think that just because obama has decided that he'll give some speech that their view of us will change? We've been attacked numerous times thru many previous adminisraions by these people yet obama is so pompous that he thinks just his personal aura and charisma will turn everything around? Yeah Yeah I know..I've heard it before...we have to start somewhere. I really doubt that the Muslim world wants to change and engae in a meaningful dialogue with the west. I could be wrong....I'm only basing my inpressions on what's been going on for the last 80 to 100 years.
Posted by: Al in Chicago | June 4, 2009 11:33 AM
MR. PRESIDENT WE ARE PROUD OF YOU. WELL DONE.
Posted by: Ather Masood | June 4, 2009 11:33 AM
Bill R wrote; "This speech was aimed at the moderate, mainstream people of the world. Both Islamic radicals and neo cons will attack it."
If you watch world news you will see that other cultures will not just stand for words they will want to see action. Eloquent speeches do not work on everybody. Most intelligent people are not fooled by smokescreens. I hope his grand ideas of bridging a relationship to the Muslim works out better the closing Guantanamo without a plan, bailing out GM without a clue, and driving thru a “stimulus” package that is just paying the bills the country is late on. We will only have money for our new Muslims guest to stop by the White House to play on the swing set and watch the dog.
Posted by: Thedownward Spiral | June 4, 2009 11:40 AM
Apparently, Obama only cares about countries with oil. I don't buy his speech. It's gonna be four more years of Bush. Israel, keep building more settlements. We're gonna need 'em.
Posted by: Heather Czenriak | June 4, 2009 11:56 AM
Some responses from Iran following the beautiful slop potus slings. If we could just learn to tolerate and understand these sweet people who just want to live in peace.
"Even if they give sweet and beautiful talks to the Muslim nation ... that will not create a change," said Khamenei, Iran's most powerful figure with the final say on all matters of state. "Nothing will change with speeches and slogans."
He also called Israel, which Iran does not recognize, a "cancerous tumor in the heart" of the Muslim world.
"If you (Muslims) see that the Western world is talking more softly to you it is the result of public awareness and resistance in the Islamic world," Khamenei said.
...In other words, terrorism works.
"The terrorists kill one, two or ten people ... but you kill 100 or 150 people," he said, referring to a rising civilian death toll as foreign and Afghan troops battle Taliban insurgents.
....You know, the civilians that the terrorist hide behind while lobbing bombs.
We just need to be more tolerant. Let em blow up a few people here and there. They're just venting.
Posted by: RCK | June 4, 2009 11:57 AM
All citizens should be proud of President Obama. He is doing the absolute, right thing here. We have more in common with our Muslim friends than we do the "xtian terrorists" on our own soil. Hopefully the President will start internment camps, similar to the ones in WII for the Japanese, for this American hating obstructionists.
Posted by: richard | June 4, 2009 12:06 PM
I for one and so happy to hear a US president speak about bringing people together and finding common ground. Of course radicals on both sides will not be pleased, but they do not share the goal of unity of people, they are bent on dividing people. The past 8 years in the USA have proven that dividing people and pitting them against each other is not a positive or productive path to pursue. President Obama's message to the Muslim people may not end terrorism, but it may set a new tone which would influence less people to be consumed by anger and thus turning to terrorism to express this anger.
Only time will tell, but I remain hopeful that a common ground might be identified and that the US might be a positive and active player in resolving Middle East conflict.
Posted by: Rick | June 4, 2009 12:07 PM
I thought this guy was supposed to be intelligent. The christian world in general and the United States in particular have NO obligation to make peace with the muslim terrorist states. I have to wonder whose side Obama is on. I suspect his claims to be a christian are like the words of most politicians: LIES.
Posted by: James Sullivan | June 4, 2009 12:15 PM
So America is not at war with the Muslim world? Tell that to the American Muslim soldier who killed two of his non-Muslim compatriots a couple of weeks ago. That was an incident Obama conveniently swept under the rug.
All Obama is good for is campaigning. His Smilin' Jack routine got old a long time ago.
Posted by: Alan Shuback | June 4, 2009 12:39 PM
One must wonder why he is so worried about appeasing the Muslims. Isn't this something like the third time he has addressed a speech to them saying America wants to be friends? He really likes showing his lack of understanding and knowledge, almost as much as Bush. The ones that are a threat to us do not listen to our words. They do not care. Their call is greater. They will not listen to what he says, in fact they are likely to take it as a sign of weakness. Can you say Let's Perpetuate The Hatred?
Posted by: Paul | June 4, 2009 8:45 AM
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I have to agree with Paul (and with Thomasburns) INASMUCH AS the terrorists -- the ones who are out to destroy us -- are not being moved to peace by speeches like this, and we can't expect speeches to do any good. That's pretty much the limit of my agreement with them.
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Just about everybody, including President Obama, UNDERSTANDS terrorists and jihadists are not going to be moved. They're NOT HIS AUDIENCE, and I don't see him trying to "appease" them. The audience for speeches like this -- the people to whom Obama IS speaking -- is the saner, more moderate population who, incidentally, is far more numerous than the terrorists. The AIM, as I'd understand it, is that by getting THESE people to work with us, we cut off the support being given to the terrorists out of fear that we're going to attack the whole Muslim world willy-nilly, killing as many as we can and letting god sort it all out, as they've been given good reason to fear over the past several years if not decades.
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Terrorists have gotten HUGE mileage out of perpetuating the belief in the "moderate" population that Americans are hell-bent (literally) to slaughter any Muslim we can get our sights on, so the last thing in the world they want to have the Islamic World believe is that we're not monsters. Much of their success depends on our NOT undermining that image; they'd lose their "Holy Warrior" status and become murderers and butchers. OF COURSE they won't buy into any Obama speeches. It would make no sense for them to do so.
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So what DO we do with the actual terrorists? We continue to kill them off or capture them. We just do it with some sense, for a change. And, btw, the terrorists we DO capture should be tried as such and put away pretty much FOREVER, just as SOON as they've been found guilty. Without crumpets, thank you, but still treated with decency even if it's more than they'd give us.
Posted by: Op109 | June 4, 2009 12:58 PM
Unlike former Pres.Bush,President Obama is choosing to take the high road.Instead of inciting violence he spoke to the hearts and minds of the everyday,hardworking,peaceful members of the Muslim community.This only makes sense when you consider that the violent extremists are merely a small fraction of the population.God Bless you Mr.President
Posted by: Vernon Eatman | June 4, 2009 1:13 PM
So nice to hear something other than-- together we must face our enemies-- remember who our allies are-- St. Peter is no better than ST. Paul but really St. Peter is the only one with the problem-- and all that old dialogue that worker out so well so far-- This speech won't change a damn thing, but it sounds so much more respectable. Job well done.
Posted by: SnowPatrol. | June 4, 2009 1:22 PM
Others simply used the occasion of the speech as an opportunity to vent their particular political views regarding the United States’ foreign policy in various regions. Are they small minded too, bill?
Posted by: John W. | June 4, 2009 10:50 AM
BINGO!!!!!!
Posted by: bill r. | June 4, 2009 1:31 PM
Maybe Obi-Wan wouldn't be so lonely in that cave if he moved to Kansas. I mean, we're the only ones with a majority that truly cares how OBL and twisted minions think and feel. Blah.
Posted by: SnowPatrol | June 4, 2009 1:36 PM
This is a guy who spent Christmas in Hawaii and didn't attend church on a holy day, so I really can't believe him when he professes that he is Christian.
Posted by: Whatever | June 4, 2009 11:09 AM
Congratulations....you just eliminated half of the religious.
Posted by: bill r. | June 4, 2009 1:40 PM
Only the simple-minded look to the Bush administration as the big factor in these relations. Keep in mind that many Middle East countries have been hating us for years and years and years. Keep in mind that 9/11 was not the first bombing of the Twin Towers. Keep in mind that the planning for 9/11 largely took place prior to Bush taking office. Mr. President, do not be so naive as to believe these people want to be our friends.
Posted by: Sandra D | June 4, 2009 1:46 PM
This speech won't change a damn thing, but it sounds so much more respectable. Job well done.
Posted by: SnowPatrol. | June 4, 2009 1:22 PM
...And that's all that really matters, right?
Posted by: RCK | June 4, 2009 2:02 PM
Obama is good at the speechifying but his words ring hollow while he continues waging wars and even escalates them, killing many many innocent civilians along the way and destroying so much else. Bush or Obama it's more of the same only worse. The wars are bad ideas and we can no longer afford them.
Muslims and non-Muslims disagree on many things but we should all join in calling for an end to Obama's illegal, immoral wars.
Posted by: Stanner | June 4, 2009 2:11 PM
No anger...but a little humor. I find your post and thoughts a joke. I have always found that those who wish to throw the names around of unpatriotic, are usually the ones never found in battle. I fought my battles for my country and my guess is many of the hard core right haven't. Like Cheney, Rush, and the rest of the rights leadership they are quick to label yet never back it up with actions. So much for the religious casting of a stone. Then I get a great laugh at "Obamas" war. You whine and moan about radical Al-Qaeda, yet refuse to see the justice in the real war against those who brought 9/11. The war that would have been over had you and the rest of that testosterone driven leadership hadn't taken your eye off of for some sort of twisted, bungled, misguided reasons. Your leadership tortured to make some sort of connection to Iraq that even now Cheney agrees wasn't there. Bravo! Your words speak volumes and I only look for the mute button.
Posted by: bill r. | June 4, 2009 11:17 AM
Sorry bill, you can'thave it three ways from Sunday and be a hypocrite as well.
Just tell me that you've sent a long ranting letter to president Obama complaining about HIS sending off another 21,000 US troops to put thier lives on the line in Afghanistan. Then ask him why he's done this and why we're there? Going after the good Muslims or bad ones?
and you Op109, are you on drugs? "So what DO we do with the actual terrorists? We continue to kill them off or capture them. We just do it with some sense, for a change."
We continue to kill them off with some sense? What are you smoking?
Posted by: springfield | June 4, 2009 2:16 PM
I'm a Zionist supporter who liked most of the speech. I wished BO would have stated that the "right of return" will never happen. Otherwise, most of the speech was pretty basic stuff. It's intelligent to put the onus on the Arabs. They will never accept Israel and the world will see it. Too bad too much of the world is Muslim rejectionists and facts mean nothing.
Posted by: Dave from chicago | June 4, 2009 2:41 PM
I would encourage everyone to read the full text of President Obama's sppech. it was historic. It was honest. He set the right tone, examined issues in their historical context, and drew comparisons, and by so doing, lessons we could learn from history, as well as those our respective faiths teach us. It was a brilliant speech, and while some will criticize it for its lack of specific plans, once again Obama has provided us with the starting framework and foundation from which to build real dialogue and concrete proposals..
Posted by: Marty | June 4, 2009 2:51 PM
Pay no attention to that small but vocal group on the right screaming "appeasement." Like Bush and the neocon crowd he surrounded himself with, they don't "do nuance" and they're unfamiliar with the concept of diplomacy.
Posted by: Quippy | June 4, 2009 2:52 PM
What everyone seems to have missed is this is how a movement happens. He directed his speech to the people of these countries. once a movement has started they stand up to the radical people, the terrorist. People begin to realize that hate groups are only as powerfull as the masses let them. Pakistan will be an example of this. This will take time but it is the only way to bring real change. We have to stop a machine that has been in existence for many many years. A small example of this would be what happened in Ireland. Hopefully Obama will have 8 years to work on this issue. The course we are on now just fuels the fire on a war without end. When we show the world that the terrorist are not needed they will slowly die off. This will take many years to do but the only way to succeed is when everyone wants change.
Posted by: no spin | June 4, 2009 2:58 PM
BRILLIANT, even by the stratospheric Obama standards for addresses.
I hope it ends up in the history books for all the right reasons.
The text I read had him interrupted by applause numerous times.
His quotes from the Quran were so valuable.
Hopefully it won't push the homegrown American RIGHT-WING DOMESTIC TERRORIST nuts over the edge too much.
While some of us may not agree with every move Obama has made, I don't think anyone can deny that he is already greatly improving our image, restoring our leadership, across the globe. BushCo did a LOT of damage the last eight years.
Posted by: former Republican | June 4, 2009 3:01 PM
Obama's Plan:
Phase 1: talk about peace and harmony.
Phase 2: ???
Phase 3: peace and harmony
Does Obama have a Canadian Maple leaf on his brief case as he tours the Middle East and Europe?
Posted by: Chris | June 4, 2009 3:06 PM
For those who think that Obama did not help the America by giving this speech, please pick up some material on the Middle East and read it. You are all too afraid to be real Americans and fight for peace with peace itself.
Posted by: Chj10001 | June 4, 2009 3:15 PM
The whole point of his speech is to win win the hearts and minds of the Islamic moderates. They are the only ones capable of controlling the radicals.
Posted by: DHK | June 4, 2009 3:17 PM
OK, To The List Of The Nutty Fringe Groups Who Hated This Speech:
Osama Bin Laden (and Al-Qaeda), the American GOP and Israeli extremists.
ALL of the extremists of the world hated this speech. The other 6 billion of us LOVED it and are hoping we can work together to realize the vision the American president described so eloquently in his speech.
I am TIRED of right-wing lunatic fringe extremists hijacking the lives of the rest of us. Its time to come together and rise up against them all.
The GOP leapt off the cliff's edge 8 years ago. I'm just waiting for them to hit the bottom.
To extend that metaphor, they're like recovering addicts/alcoholics. They have to recognize they are addicted to a twisted world view, that they feed that addiction through various far right sources (Faux, Rush hate radio, etc.) and that their views and their sources combined have led themselves to the gutter of world politics, the opprobrium of nations.
They are ideological dypsomaniacs; unsophisticated junkies in a world of hurt now that their main punk dealer's been busted and they can't mainline the good stuff. They're sucking methadone treatments from the koolaide kids at FAUX, but it's just not the same. The best high they ever had was the Iraqi war kickoff and it's been downhill ever since.
Thank you for this BRILLIANT peace speech, President Obama !
Posted by: ComeAsYouAre | June 4, 2009 3:23 PM
Why are you controlling what free citizens have to say about this. When is "small" time Chicago Tribune going to more mature like the New York Times. We don't need you looking over everyones shoulder.
Posted by: Maurice | June 4, 2009 3:29 PM
I am a Republican and a veteran. The tidal shift in US foreign policy embodied by this speech is the main reason I voted for Obama. It represents our best hope for a peaceful world for our children.
Posted by: Tim | June 4, 2009 3:54 PM
This is so refreshing... It's also nice to hear from the right winged neo-nuts who have nothing but hate for all things civil and educated. We tried it your way for 8 years, we now have to fix your problems. Sit back and watch someone with inteliignce run the show.
Posted by: Bones | June 4, 2009 4:26 PM
The point President Obama's speech is to draw as many people as possible away from the fringe of society (Muslim radicals, the hardcore wing in Israel, the American Republican party) and to create a circumstance where people can have hope for a future.
The point is also to draw on our human similarities and commonalities; to show respect instead of scorn and to forge an alliance of human beings toward a better world.
In order to do that you have to create balance and fairness. You have to give voices to those who have previously had no voice.
Did you hear the applause when Obama spoke of democracy? It was perhaps the loudest of the applause. The people there are straining under an oppressive bit...they want to join the company of "men" in terms of liberty and equality just as much if not more so that we.
Well done, Mr. President!
Posted by: Patricia | June 4, 2009 4:59 PM
I just read the full transcript of Obama's speech and I don't think I've ever been prouder to be an American.
For those who question why Obama is reaching out to Muslims, it is because he recognizes that only a very, very small segment of the Muslim population are violent extremists like Al Quaeda. We need "mainstream" Muslims to aid in the fight against the few violent extremists adn thus, need them to understand that America itself is not at war with Islam - it's at war with violent extremists like Al Quaeda who do not truly represent the religion of Islam.
Obama sets lofty goals in this speech, but if he is able to accomplish even half in his tenure as president, this world will be such a better place.
Posted by: Katie | June 4, 2009 5:08 PM
This boy is so far over his head in Washington.
Posted by: BDD | June 4, 2009 5:12 PM
Wow, thanks for apologizing to them for them killing thousands of Americans on Sept 11th.
Posted by: Tom | June 4, 2009 5:13 PM
Considering the right wing in this country wants to kill Americans as much as the Muslim extremists do, it's a good thing the wingers are such cowards. If they ever got together, then we'd be in real trouble.
Posted by: Cheryl | June 4, 2009 5:16 PM
Apparently, Obama only cares about countries with oil. I don't buy his speech. It's gonna be four more years of Bush. Israel, keep building more settlements. We're gonna need 'em.
Posted by: Heather Czenriak | June 4, 2009 11:56 AM
Excellent comment.
May i ad so they can buy him gold necklaces.
Posted by: Inky | June 4, 2009 5:26 PM
I give Barack Obama's speech to "the Muslim World", an enthusiastic thumbs up. Sure, there are specific portions that require some scrutiny, but the speech was well executed on a number of fronts.
~ It acknowledged past injustice and current tension between Muslim nations and the U.S.
~ It showed value and appreciation for Muslim literature, science, and religion
~ It avoided ethnocentrism and showed an engagement with Muslim religion with several quotes from the Koran
~ It rejected the argument that Muslim interests were necessarily at odds with U.S. interests
~ It acknowledged the diversity in the Muslim world
~ It focused on commonalities between the major religions
~ It identified and honestly (albeit briefly) discussed seven different sources of tension, including the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, U.S. relations with Iran, and women's rights.
More than anything, however, Obama presented the United States as a partner, not an enforcer -- a sharp departure from both the rhetoric and the tone usually used by the previous administration.
Obama pledged a fresh start, and, to me at least, it came off as genuine. Between his father's background and his own time in Indonesia, I got the sense that Obama believed his own words about valuing Islam and understanding that, like Christianity, it contains complexities and contradictions that allow different interpretations. It's a well-documented psychological phenomenon that we tend to see our own group as diverse and heterogeneous and out-groups as "all alike". Though he emphasized that he himself was Christian, Obama, in my (admittedly non-Muslim) eyes, managed to soften the usual hard boundary between Islam and outsiders. Well done, Mr. President.
Posted by: Speaking Truth to Power | June 4, 2009 5:34 PM
This appeaser is sending our once great country straight to hell. All of you apologists better start practicing the Koran. Chavez, Castro, Amajinidad, Kim, Ortega. with friends like these who needs enemies!!! Even the ultimate lefty Jimmy Carter would be turning over in his grave if he was in one!!!!
Posted by: mike b | June 4, 2009 5:40 PM
Another day, another grand slam. President Obama, speaking in Egypt, threaded a needle this morning and gave the Middle East (not to mention folks here at home) plenty of food for thought. He spoke of respect for religious diversity, women's rights, peaceful co-existence, political freedom, nuclear disarmament, and fighting terrorism. He pledged to support these efforts without acting like a bull in a china shop, but said change would only come with fresh thinking on everybody's part. But even more than that, he accomplished one thing that historians will marvel at as a high point in the first year of his presidency: he knocked Joke Scarborough off the teevee for an entire hour.
On behalf of a grateful nation---thank you, sir.
Posted by: 2012-Can't Wait To Finish Off What's Left Of The Republican Party | June 4, 2009 5:55 PM
Trying to appease Islam? Cozying up to the Muslim world? Making nice? These people want us wiped from the face of the earth, and those not activley trying need only a slight nudge, Neville Chamberlain immediately came to mind, but the third post already covered that. President Obama is just a plain damn fool.
Posted by: Warde | June 4, 2009 6:01 PM
All citizens should be proud of President Obama. He is doing the absolute, right thing here. We have more in common with our Muslim friends than we do the "xtian terrorists" on our own soil. Hopefully the President will start internment camps, similar to the ones in WII for the Japanese, for this American hating obstructionists.
Posted by: richard | June 4, 2009 12:06 PM
Sounds like you'd be at home in Saudi Arabia. Why don't you move there and see how you'd like it?
Posted by: david | June 4, 2009 6:07 PM
* * * * *
“The christian (sic) world in general and the United States in particular have NO obligation to make peace with the muslim (sic) terrorist states.”
* * * * *
Posted by: James Sullivan | June 4, 2009 12:15 PM
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Uh. Nope.
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“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.” (Matthew 5: 9.)
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“Repay no one evil for evil, but take thought for what is noble in the sight of all. If possible, so far as it depends upon you, live peaceably with all.” (Romans 12: 17-18.)
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“Strive for peace with all men, and for the holiness without which no one will see the Lord.” (Hebrews 12:14.)
Posted by: John W. | June 4, 2009 6:40 PM
Hail our President!!
Posted by: Obama rocks | June 4, 2009 7:46 PM
GREAT SPEECH, PRESIDENT OBAMA!
It sure as heck beats Blunder Boy Jr's - Axis of Evil, Bring'em On!, WMD's - messages to the middle-east.
Posted by: Belinda | June 4, 2009 8:01 PM
This appearance in the name of mutual respect between either side won't force either side to cross the mutual respect bridge, but it will provide the bridge should either side decide to cross. A celebrity appearance in the name of world hunger won't really feed anyone, but it will provide the platform should everyone decide to get involved. Of course, there are other options--stay home, threaten, or the sky is falling. What might matter to some, might not matter to others. It's not that speeches don't matter. Many a great speech have broken some historic divide, but in this case what wall was there to break? The foundation of the wall between Muslim and non-Muslim lies in their ignorance of each other, to the delight of every terrorists and the like. Won't change a damn thing, but so much more respectable. Respect. A bridge should anyone be willing to cross. A platform should anyone be willing to join. One thing is certain-- if you let your enemies dictate where you build your bridges and platforms-- none will be around to cross or stand on, and you've already lost the war.
Posted by: SnowPatrol | June 4, 2009 8:31 PM
He is a complete idiot.
Posted by: Gina | June 4, 2009 9:14 PM
Speeches are just talk.
They don't change anything.
Posted by: Danaidh | June 4, 2009 10:20 PM
BARACK = 6
HUSSEI = 6
NOBAMA = 6
(666)
Us Christian Americans are still with our ally, Israel. Forgive those Americans that were hood-winked by this leftist, socialist, muslim community organizer. What a pity.
Paulo
Posted by: Paulo | June 5, 2009 1:01 AM
"He has lied on basically every issue he campaigned on. I voted for him because I thought he would keep his promise to go through the budget line by line an eliminate wasteful spending. Instead the White House is predicting almost a $2 TRILLION deficit for the next four years. So if by eliminate wasteful spending he meant increase the deficit by 65% then I guess he is right on track. I will NOT be voting for him again in 2012, and I apologize to everyone for my mistake."
Oh, please. Had you honestly voted for Obama, your post wouldn't be laden with GOP talking points. Go run your scam somewhere else.
Posted by: Diane | June 5, 2009 3:02 PM
PAU = 6
AUL = 6
ULO = 6
Posted by: Milton Friedman | June 6, 2009 10:14 PM