Hours before most Americans rolled out of bed on Thursday morning, President Barack Obama addressed the Muslim world from Cairo University, praising Islam’s contributions to society and potentially repairing what seemed a hopelessly tattered bridge between the Middle East and the West.

“I have come here to seek a new beginning between the United States and Muslims around the world; one based upon mutual interest and mutual respect…” Obama said.

“So long as our relationship is defined by our differences, we will empower those who sow hatred rather than peace.”

Perhaps hoping to woo the millions of Muslim youth who have been often described as hostile towards and turned off by American culture, values and ideals, Obama spoke sympathetically towards Palestinians – potentially forging a new Middle Eastern ally while potentially disenfranchising the regions only democracy.

Yet, while it maybe decades before we know whether Obama’s attempts at courting the Middle East bear fruit, his hour-long address taught us where how the president plans to manage a host of hot-button issues surrounding Middle Eastern foreign policy.

Israel

Obama made the obligatory mention of the America’s  “cultural and historical ties” with Israel, but by acknowledging that the Palestinians have faced their own share of hardships throughout the conflict, the president shockingly took the middle ground on what is commonly a one-sided debate in American political circles.

“It is also undeniable that the Palestinian people — Muslims and Christians — have suffered in pursuit of a homeland. For more than 60 years, they’ve endured the pain of dislocation.”

Critics cringed at each exoneration of the Palestinians, yet Obama’s goal was clear: to leave no doubt that – at least in word – the U.S. will foster increasingly close relations with the Islamic world, even if it means upsetting supporters of Israel.

In a backhanded shot at Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, Obama forcefully called-out those who openly deny the Holocaust.

“Six million Jews were killed…Denying that fact is baseless, ignorant, and hateful.”

Hamas

Straying from declarative and polarizing condemnation of “Islamo-fascism” that was commonplace in the Bush Administration, Obama skillfully danced around using the word “terrorism,” yet ironically enough, the only Islamic group the president mentioned by name was Hamas.

Obama’s direct address of Hamas was an indirect acknowledgment of the power held by the militant organization. Rather than continuing the unwritten policy of open hostility towards the group responsible for about 350 terrorist attacks since 1993, Obama spoke to the group as the primary political power in Palestine, demanding it give up violent tactics and recognize Israel’s right to exist.

“Hamas does have support among some Palestinians, but they also have to recognize they have responsibilities.”

Obama’s Muslim Roots

Obama frequently quoted the Koran, and, in a strategy far-different from that of his 2008 presidential campaign, spoke of his own personal ties to the Islam; referencing his Muslim father and childhood years in Indonesia.

While he often ran from the stereotypes associated with his Muslim family history on the campaign trail, Obama embraced his roots: referencing his Kenyan father and referring to himself by his full name.

“Much has been made of the fact that an African-American with the name Barack Hussein Obama could be elected President. But my personal story is not so unique,” Obama said.

“The dream of opportunity for all people has not come true for everyone in America, but its promise exists for all who come to our shores – that includes nearly seven million American Muslims in our country today who enjoy incomes and education that are higher than average.”

Obama painted the picture of an America rich with Islamic influence, much to the chagrin of the Christian Right. He masterfully preached of a religiously diverse nation, noting that there is a mosque in every state. Hailing freedom of religion, Obama lobbied Muslims to disregard the stereotypes they may associate with the U.S.

“So let there be no doubt: Islam is a part of America.”

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