[The two videos above are of poor quality, but they are the only ones I could find of the interview. I will update when there is a better version on YouTube.]
President Barack Obama gave his first formal television interview to Al Arabiya Television. It was a remarkable interview, both in tone and in content. With this interview and with the pick of George Mitchell as special envoy to the Middle East, Barack Obama is clearly reaching out to the Muslim world.
I think this interview will be very well received in the Muslim world. If this interview signals a reengagement of the American government with the Muslim world that goes beyond dropping bombs, there is much room for optimism.
Try this code from CNN:
Embedded video from CNN Video
Or this:
http://edition.cnn.com/2009/POLITICS/01/27/obama.arabia/index.html#cnnSTCVideo
Indeed, Mash. He talked about the need for “small sacrifices” from Israelis. He talked about diplomacy and his Muslim family members. However, he also talked about the support for Israel and the need to keep up the Pakistan-watch. Overall, it was very balanced and nuanced.
I mention this briefly at:
http://secretdhaka.wordpress.com/2009/01/28/playing-limbaugh/
Also, you may notice that my fonts appear strange after the first three posts. Don’t know what’s causing it. Any tipcs from an experienced blogger to a newbie?