Obama delivered his long-awaited speech to the Muslim world in Cairo on Thursday.

Starting his speech by saying assalaamu alaykum, Obama made some important remarks on some hot issues regarding the region.

Here are the highlights of Obama’s speech;

Islam is a part of America

“In Ankara, I made clear that America is not - and never will be - at war with Islam. We will, however, relentlessly confront violent extremists who pose a grave threat to our security. Because we reject the same thing that people of all faiths reject: the killing of innocent men, women, and children. And it is my first duty as President to protect the American people.”

Two-state solution for Middle East Peace

Noting that US troops will have completed withdrawing from Iraq by the year 2011, Obama said seeking a one-way to the problem will only cause more problems.

Obama said: “Now is the time for Palestinians to focus on what they can build. The Palestinian Authority must develop its capacity to govern, with institutions that serve the needs of its people. Hamas does have support among some Palestinians, but they also have responsibilities. To play a role in fulfilling Palestinian aspirations, and to unify the Palestinian people, Hamas must put an end to violence, recognize past agreements, and recognize Israel's right to exist.

At the same time, Israelis must acknowledge that just as Israel's right to exist cannot be denied, neither can Palestine's. The United States does not accept the legitimacy of continued Israeli settlements. This construction violates previous agreements and undermines efforts to achieve peace. It is time for these settlements to stop.”

No countries should own nuclear weapons

Regarding the latest developments about the nuclear weapons, Obama said: “I understand those who protest that some countries have weapons that others do not. No single nation should pick and choose which nations hold nuclear weapons. That is why I strongly reaffirmed America's commitment to seek a world in which no nations hold nuclear weapons. And any nation - including Iran - should have the right to access peaceful nuclear power if it complies with its responsibilities under the nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty.”

“Women rights” important

Stating that US defends human rights all around the world, Obama said women should also be given equal rights with men.

Obama added that women should not be put under pressure on what they wear.