Obama and the Muslim World

Hello Im Charlotte Bellis and youre watching Newsy.com

In his first formal television interview as President, Barack Obama addressed Middle-Eastern concerns to an Arabic TV network.

Were following coverage of Al-Arabiya, MSNBC, Al Jazeera English, and Haaretz.

First, lets take a look at the interview on Dubai-based Al-Arabiya, where President Obama talks about the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Ultimately, we cannot tell either the Israelis or the Palestinians what's best for them. They're going to have to make some decisions. But I do believe that the moment is ripe for both sides to realize that the path that they are on is one that is not going to result in prosperity and security for their people. And that instead, it's time to return to the negotiating table. (Al-Arabiya)

Al-Arabiya also highlights the Presidents vow to improve U.S. ties with the Muslim world.

US media outlets agreed on the need for improved U.S. Arab relations, seeing the interview as a positive step in the right direction.

MSNBCs Morning Joe discussed the political significance.

Its symbolic. Its not as if he broke new ground as far as policy is concerned. But symbolism can matter. Its a way of putting out this olive branch by saying you are gonna have a dialogue. (MSNBC)

The Middle-Eastern response isnt as optimistic.

A Hamas spokesperson tells Al Jazeera English the Presidents comments sound familiar.

"It seems that Obama is trying to repeat the same mistakes that George Bush made I think this is an unfortunate start for President Obama in the region and the Middle East issue. And it looks like the next four years, if it continues with the same tone, will be a total failure." (Al Jazeera English)

Readers shared their responses on Al Jazeera Englishs website. Naj from Afghanistan writes, It seems that Arabs do not learn from the past. USA was and will be against you.

Another reader from Australia writes, Not much vision involved there. What is needed is LESS U.S. involvement in the Middle East. Less vetoing of U.N. requests to keep Israel under control and less financial support. (Al Jazeera English)

Israels Haaretz contrasts the old Bush administration with the new Presidents vision for the Middle East:

Obama has made clear the Middle East conflict will be a high priority as he tries to repair a U.S. image battered by the war in Iraq and the Bush administration's perceived cowboy diplomacy. (Haaretz)



Are President Obamas plans for the Middle East too similar to the previous administration? How do you think Obama could improve U.S.Middle East relations? Please share your thoughts with us on newsy.com.

Im Charlotte Bellis, for newsy.com, where multiple perspectives help provide the real story.