we have a responsibility to join together on behalf of the world we seek – a world where extremists no longer threaten our people,By SETH J. FRANTZMAN
US President Donald Trump gave a speech in Riyadh on May 21, 2017. to assembled leaders of Muslim countries. US President Barack Obama gave a speech in Cairo on June 4th, 2009 to the Muslim world in front of local Egyptians at Al-Azhar. Commentators are rushing to judge the Trump speech. But can you tell them apart? Here’s a quiz, answers at the bottom.
1.
- I am honored [to be here]…you represent the harmony between tradition and progress. I am grateful for your hospitality.
- I am honored to be recieved by such gracious hosts…words do not do justice to the grandeur of this remarkable place and the incredible hospitality you have shown us
2.
- I have come here to seek a new beginning between the United States and Muslims around the world;
- Today we begin a new chapter that will bring lasting benefits to our citizens.
3.
- Our vision is one of peace, security, and prosperity—in this region, and in the world.
- We Share common principles – principles of justice and progress; tolerance and the dignity of all human beings.
4.
- …is a symbol to the world of our shared resolve and our mutual respect.
- …one based upon mutual interest and mutual respect;
5.
- The United States has been one of the greatest sources of progress that the world has ever known. We were born out of revolution against an empire. We were founded upon the ideal that all are created equal, and we have shed blood and struggled for centuries to give meaning to those words
- I want you to know that the United States is eager to form closer bonds of friendship, security, culture and commerce. For Americans, this is an exciting time. A new spirit of optimism is sweeping our country: in just a few months,
6.
- America does not presume to know what is best for everyone, just as we would not presume to pick the outcome of a peaceful election.
- We are not here to tell other people how to live, what to do, who to be, or how to worship. Instead, we are here to offer partnership — based on shared interests and values — to pursue a better future for us all.
7.
- …this tremendous cause for optimism, is held at bay by bloodshed and terror. There can be no coexistence with this violence. There can be no tolerating it, no accepting it, no excusing it, and no ignoring it.
- …we will do so in partnership with Muslim communities which are also threatened. The sooner the extremists are isolated and unwelcome in Muslim communities, the sooner we will all be safer.
8.
- the Holy Land of three great faiths is the place of peace that God intended it to be; when Jerusalem is a secure and lasting home for Jews and Christians and Muslims, and a place for all of the children of Abraham to mingle peacefully together
- the holiest places in the three Abrahamic Faiths. If these three faiths can join together in cooperation, then peace in this world is possible — including peace between Israelis and Palestinians.
9.
- Since the Islamic Revolution, Iran has played a role in acts of hostage-taking and violence against U.S. troops and civilians. This history is well known.
- From Lebanon to Iraq to Yemen, Iran funds, arms, and trains terrorists, militias, and other extremist groups that spread destruction and chaos across the region. For decades, Iran has fueled the fires of sectarian conflict and terror.
10.
- No matter where it takes hold, government of the people and by the people sets a single standard for all who hold power: you must maintain your power through consent, not coercion; you must respect the rights of minorities, and participate with a spirit of tolerance and compromise;
- That means honestly confronting the crisis of Islamist extremism and the Islamist terror groups it inspires. And it means standing together against the murder of innocent Muslims, the oppression of women, the persecution of Jews, and the slaughter of Christians.
11.
- That means promoting the aspirations and dreams of all citizens who seek a better life – including women, children, and followers of all faiths. Numerous Arab and Islamic scholars have eloquently argued that protecting equality strengthens Arab and Muslim communities. For many centuries the Middle East has been home to Christians, Muslims and Jews living side-by-side.
- Indeed, faith should bring us together. That is why we are forging service projects in America that bring together Christians, Muslims, and Jews. That is why we welcome efforts like Saudi Arabian King Abdullah’s Interfaith dialogue and Turkey’s leadership in the Alliance of Civilizations.
12.
- In ancient times and in our times, Muslim communities have been at the forefront of innovation and education
- The birthplace of civilization is waiting to begin a new renaissance. Just imagine what tomorrow could bring.
13.
- We have a responsibility to join together on behalf of the world we seek – a world where extremists no longer threaten our people,
- I ask you to join me, to join together, to work together, and to fight together – because, united we will not fail
14.
- Thank you. God Bless You. God Bless Your Countries. And God Bless the United States of America
- We know that is God’s vision. Now, that must be our work here on Earth. Thank you. And may God’s peace be upon you.
15.
- Terrorism has spread across the world. But the path to peace begins right here, on this ancient soil, in this sacred land.
- Islam is not part of the problem in combating violent extremism – it is an important part of promoting peace.
Answers. The full transcript of the Trump speech is here (3,800 words) and the Obama speech here (5,800 words)
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