Meaning: The quote, "Arafat contradicts himself every five minutes. He always plays the double-cross, lies even if you ask him what time it is," is attributed to the Italian journalist Oriana Fallaci. Fallaci was known for her controversial and outspoken views, particularly in relation to her coverage of political and social issues. This quote reflects her critical perspective on Yasser Arafat, the former leader of the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) and the Palestinian Authority.

Yasser Arafat was a prominent figure in the Palestinian struggle for statehood and is often considered a polarizing figure in the context of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. As the leader of the PLO, Arafat was involved in numerous negotiations and peace efforts with Israel, as well as being accused of supporting or directly engaging in violent activities against Israel.

In her quote, Fallaci accuses Arafat of constant contradiction and dishonesty. She suggests that he cannot be trusted and that his words and actions are inherently untruthful. It is important to note that Fallaci's perspective on Arafat is one of many, and it reflects the contentious and complex nature of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Oriana Fallaci's journalistic career was marked by her fearless and often confrontational approach to interviewing political leaders and figures of authority. She was not hesitant to express her opinions and engage in direct and often confrontational dialogue with her subjects. Fallaci's assertive and critical style made her a controversial figure in the world of journalism, but she also gained a reputation for her tenacity and refusal to shy away from difficult questions and subjects.

The quote in question encapsulates Fallaci's uncompromising approach to her subjects. In the context of her coverage of Arafat and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, it reflects her skepticism and mistrust of Arafat's leadership and intentions. It is important to consider the historical and political context in which Fallaci made this statement. The Israeli-Palestinian conflict has been characterized by deep-rooted animosities, complex historical grievances, and competing narratives of victimization and resistance. Arafat's role in this conflict and his leadership of the PLO placed him at the center of intense scrutiny and criticism from various quarters.

It is also worth noting that Fallaci's perspective on Arafat and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict should be viewed within the broader context of her journalistic career and personal background. Fallaci's own experiences, including her coverage of events such as the Vietnam War and her interviews with leaders such as Henry Kissinger and Ayatollah Khomeini, undoubtedly shaped her worldview and influenced her approach to covering contentious and high-stakes issues.

In conclusion, Oriana Fallaci's quote about Yasser Arafat reflects her uncompromising and critical approach to journalism. It is a stark and unapologetic assessment of Arafat's character and leadership, and it encapsulates the contentious and polarizing nature of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. While Fallaci's views may not be universally embraced, they serve as a reminder of the complexities and challenges inherent in covering and understanding deeply entrenched political conflicts.