The US is a nation built on democracy, citizens’ rights and the rule of law. It believes that it is its mission to spread such virtues all around the world. A valuable principle of the US is the right of freedom of speech and expression of opinion. Even if opinions are contrary to the desire of the US government it is the fundamental prerogative of its citizens to express their opinions freely and without intimidation. The promotion of such values throughout the world and especially in the Middle East are the stated objectives of the current US administration as expressed by President Bush and most of his Cabinet and the leaders of the US armed forces.
A recent article of mine concerning the US military has aroused the ire of some of my American friends. They have even accused me of being anti-American. This is an accusation that is as serious today as being accused of heresy in 16th-century Spain, so I feel it is important to clarify certain issues.
Whatever I have written has been based on fact or on my own conclusions based on my readings of books and articles, Western or otherwise. This is naturally colored by my own beliefs and values. I have always endeavored to express my opinions openly and honestly and have never been hypocritical or a liar. I have been as critical of affairs that concern Saudi society and government as I have been of the US government. If my opinion offends some Americans I would have expected them to put pen to paper and argue their point of view fairly and with respect. Instead I am the recipient of a steady stream of insulting e-mails that throw every epithet under the sun at me. I have never claimed to be a know-it-all and I freely admit that some of my opinions may have been incorrect. I would be glad to hear from somebody who wishes to correct any mistakes I have made.
What I deeply resent is Mr. Arnaud de Borchgrave, UPI editor at large (known for his links with US intelligence) implying in his article dated July 30 “Osama’s Saudi Moles” that I am an agent of terrorists. Is this how Americans display their tolerance of other peoples opinions?
Are we now to get approval from America before we write anything about America? Is this the democracy the Americans want to impose on us?
If de Borchgrave takes exception to anything I have written does this automatically make me a terrorist? Why did he not write to me in order to point out any mistakes I may have made? Instead he blackens my name all over the world press.
Mr. De Borchgrave, it is a shame that someone like you, a journalist, should slander someone for merely expressing his opinion and exercising his right, according to your beliefs, to speak freely and without intimidation.
