Obama And Pirates: The Apology

I think I know why Barack Obama declined to comment on the American being held hostage by Somali pirates. When asked by members of the press for his thoughts, Obama refused.
WASHINGTON, April 9 (Reuters) -- U.S. President Barack Obama declined to answer reporters' questions on Thursday on a hostage crisis off the coast of Somalia, where a U.S. ship captain is being held captive by pirates.Obama was asked to comment on the situation several times by reporters at a White House event on refinancing for homeowners. Obama, however, stuck closely to the script and replied that he wanted to remain focused on housing.Nothing?Not one word?Why?Because Obama wants to pick the right time and place to deliver his most sincere apology to the pirates. Here is a draft of Obama's apology to the Somali thugs, provided by an Obama aide on condition of anonymity due to the sensitive nature of the situation:
BARACK OBAMA: In America, there is a failure to appreciate Somali pirates' leading role in the world.Instead of celebrating your dynamic presence and seeking to partner with you to meet common challenges, there have been times where America has shown arrogance and been dismissive, even derisive.America has made mistakes and has its flaws.We're a country of different backgrounds and races and religions that have come together around a set of shared ideals. And we are still a place where anybody has a chance to make it if they try. If that wasn't true, then somebody named Barack Hussein Obama would not be elected president of the United States of America. Somali pirates, I invite you to join me. Take your place, as global citizens, in our effort to change the world. Work with me.So let me say this as clearly as I can -- the United States is not and will never be at war with Somali pirates.We will listen carefully, we will bridge misunderstanding, and we will seek common ground. We will be respectful, even when we do not agree. And we will convey our deep appreciation for Somali pirates, who have done so much to shape the world -- including in my own country. I'm not naïve. This goal will not be reached quickly—perhaps not in my lifetime. It will take patience and persistence. Somali pirates, you must ignore the voices who tell us that the world cannot change. Yes, we can. I'm not really comfortable with Obama's apology to the pirates. Personally, I don't think Obama's new tone is a good one.