(8 Jan 1998) English/Nat
Iranian President Mohammad Khatami's televised denial of terrorism and call for more dialogue with the West on Wednesday was greeted with indifference by ordinary U-S people.
The interview has been billed by Khatami's allies as an address to the American people, but if you look at this popular Washington bar, you can see it was anything but well received.
Just two blocks from the White House, this is a popular after-work gathering spot for some of Washington's political elite.
But even here, as CNN's interview with the Iranian President played on all of the bar's TV sets, few bothered to show any interest.
SOUNDBITE:
"We're sitting here, they turned up the volume even. We all turned out heads, because were not sure exactly why is he on TV, and what does he have to say to us? I don't think he has anything to say to us right now."
SUPER CAPTION: Jeff Eshelman, Washington Press Secretary
And that sentiment was echoed throughout the bar, revealing little interest in increased dialogue with Iran.
SOUNDBITE:
"What could he possibly say that would interest me, unless you know it's they're gonna make things better. I doubt that."
SUPER CAPTION: VOX POP
Others, though, thought the Iranian leader should be heard, and expressed frustration at American apathy towards the subject.
SOUNDBITE:
"The impact of something you know outrageous like O-J Simpson, or whatever, we're all glued to the set. But when it comes to world news, no one wants to listen to it, no one wants to deal with it."
SUPER CAPTION: VOX POP
Although official reaction won't come until Thursday, Khatami has already been criticized by some political figures for his attacks on U-S policy in the Middle East and on his feelings toward Israel.
Others say his push for an open dialogue with Americans is a good start.
SOUNDBITE:
"He is trying to use modern communications in a way that former Iranian leaders have not. Maybe that's good; he obviously was well prepared for the speech, and he was pitching to various constituencies, and that was interesting. I don't think that's ever happened before. But are the American people ready to change our Iran policy? I don't think so, not yet. I think the administration is right when it says let's watch his deeds, not just his words."
SUPER CAPTION: Representative Jane Harman, National Security Committee (Democrat, California)
Responding to Khatami's remarks, State Department Spokesman James Rubin told the Associated Press that talks are the best way for Washington and Tehran to rebuild their relationship.
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