Overview
In June 2009, President Barack Obama delivered his speech in Cairo, Egypt, outlining what he described as “a new beginning” between the United States and the Muslim world. The address emphasized themes of unity, mutual respect, and shared humanity.
Obama identified seven key areas of tension that required attention: violent extremism, the Israeli–Palestinian conflict, nuclear weapons, democracy, religious freedom, women’s rights, and economic development.
Reframing International Relations
The president called for a move away from the binary view of global politics that had characterized earlier policies. Instead of defining conflicts as struggles between good and evil, he urged cooperation and dialogue across nations and faiths. His message encouraged engagement rather than confrontation as a way to resolve international disputes.
Addressing the Israeli–Palestinian Conflict
Obama discussed the longstanding conflict between Israelis and Palestinians, recognizing the historical suffering experienced by both groups. He reaffirmed the United States’ “unbreakable” bond with Israel, rooted in shared history and the legacy of the Holocaust.
He stated:
“America’s strong bonds with Israel are well known. This bond is unbreakable. It is based upon cultural and historical ties, and the recognition that the aspiration for a Jewish homeland is rooted in a tragic history that cannot be denied.”
He then acknowledged the hardship faced by Palestinians over more than six decades of displacement and occupation:
“It is also undeniable that the Palestinian people – Muslims and Christians – have suffered in pursuit of a homeland… The situation for the Palestinian people is intolerable. America will not turn its back on the legitimate Palestinian aspiration for dignity, opportunity, and a state of their own.”
Obama called for a two-state solution, asserting that peace would only come when both peoples’ aspirations were fulfilled. He stressed that recognizing the humanity and legitimacy of both sides was essential to achieving long-term stability.
On Nuclear Weapons and Iran
Turning to nuclear issues, Obama addressed tensions between the United States and Iran. He acknowledged the historical complexity of the relationship, including U.S. involvement in the 1953 overthrow of Prime Minister Mohammad Mossadegh.
Obama stated that both nations needed to move beyond past grievances and work toward mutual respect:
“Rather than remain trapped in the past, I have made it clear to Iran’s leaders and people that my country is prepared to move forward… It is about preventing a nuclear arms race in the Middle East that could lead this region and the world down a hugely dangerous path.”
The remarks signaled a willingness to pursue diplomatic engagement without preconditions, emphasizing dialogue over isolation.
Shared Moral and Religious Foundations
In the conclusion of his Cairo address, Obama referenced teachings from the Qur’an, Talmud, and Bible to highlight universal values of peace and cooperation:
“O mankind! We have created you male and female; and we have made you into nations and tribes so that you may know one another.” — The Holy Qur’an
“The whole of the Torah is for the purpose of promoting peace.” — The Talmud
“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.” — The Holy Bible
He concluded by expressing hope that people of all nations could live together in peace, grounded in mutual understanding and respect.