The Truth about Abbas' Soleful Pictures

A retired senior Middle East intel official provided the best answer for Mahmoud Abbas' crossed legs and the showing of his sole: The poor guy is squirming because of a prostate problem.

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Is There a Hidden Abbas Message in These Annapolis Pictures?

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I was taught in “diplomat school” never to show the sole of the foot to someone from the Arab world since it is considered insulting. So what does it mean that Mahmoud Abbas is “giving the sole” to Olmert and to Bush? Probably nothing and his posture is probably innocent, but do Palestinians understand something else? Let me know your opinions, please.

Here are some references on etiquette in the Arab world:

European Institute for Research on Mediterranean and Euro-Arab Cooperation:
This is very important. It is unwise to cross one leg over the other with the sole of the foot pointing to one side, as it may be pointing to another guest, which is regarded as very impolite. … Make sure you feet are always pointing downwards and the soles of your shoes are never visible.


New York Times:
It's impolite to show others the soles of your feet or shoes. If you're sitting with your legs crossed, always make sure your soles are facing down.


Wikipedia: Displaying the sole of one's foot or touching somebody with one's shoe is often considered rude.

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