Ah, I see what you mean. I think our interpretation varies because we are looking at the situation from different angles.

The way I see it, his cause would be greatly advanced if he stood up and proclaimed his responsibility. People need heroes. A mighty warrior for the cause, not afraid to take on the greatest military force on earth. Imagine how that would rally his people. And if he died, yelling out his "truth", the people would have a martyr - an even stronger rallying force.

Instead, to save his own skin, he disowns the people who died for the cause. He disavows his part in the actions. That is why I see him as a coward.

Evil deeds are often done out of cowardice.