The US President George W Bush concluded his five day Middle East tour on Sunday, May 18, by condemning the Arab nations for pursuing political oppression and goading them to take up economic reforms and women’s rights. His speech marked a stark contrast from his more effusive conduct during the stopover at Israel. These statements were made by the US President at the World Economic Forum convened at the Egyptian resort of Sharm el Sheik.

 

His speech was perceived by the Arabs to be strongly in favor of ally Israel than their own wellbeing and concerns. Though George Bush was supportive in his speech in many ways, it was the depiction of the region that appeared a sharp challenge to US allies like Egypt and Saudi Arabia. Addressing a group that comprised of about 1,500 policy makers and business tycoons from all over the globe, George Bush pointed out that politics too often consisted of one person in power and opposition in jail in the Middle East.

 

He added that US is anxious over the predicament of political prisoners and activists in these regions who are intimidated or repressed, media that was scuttled and protesters gagged. The United States President thereafter requested all Middle East countries to set their political prisoners free, allow political discussions and put their faith in the citizens to forge a future ahead.