Diplomacy: U.S. Radio in the Arab World

In his defense of U.S. government-sponsored Radio Sawa (Commentary, Dec. 9), Steven Spiegel criticizes a credible report on U.S. public diplomacy for the Arab/Muslim world. The report examines the United States’ negative image and makes recommendations that take the region’s people seriously and that could contribute to understanding and mutual respect. It acknowledges “that much of the resentment toward America stems from real conflicts and displeasure with policies, including those involving the Palestinian-Israeli conflict and Iraq.” However, Spiegel ignores not only this glaring reality but also supports the ludicrous notion of expanding U.S. “share market” through outlets such as Radio Sawa, which is neither “fair and balanced” nor has an “impressive mix,” as he claims.

It’s puzzling that Spiegel doesn’t ponder why, for example, a 30% listenership returns only a 1% U.S. favorability rating in the Jordanian market. His view that a planned Sawa-emulating TV station will enhance the U.S. image and be “a creative American answer to Al Jazeera” is delusional and also counterproductive to American interests. Meanwhile, cabbies in Jordan tune to Sawa for Britney Spears and Shakira and switch to the BBC Arabic Service for the news.

Fayez Hammad

Los Angeles