Following are excerpts from comments by the Director of Public Diplomacy in the US State Department Bureau of Near Eastern Affairs Alberto Fernandez, which aired on Al-Jazeera TV on January 7, 2005.

Alberto Fernandez: I believe that the people of the Arab world must choose. I think that today, unfortunately, the choice being made is wrong, or else there is some kind of deception. The idea in the Arab world - and the Arab regimes encourage this idea - is that the choice is between the decaying Arab regimes and these extremist Islamic organizations.

I believe that the Arabs need a better alternative for their future. I am against this idea. I am not an Arab but I know a little bit about the Arab world.

Man in audience: Do you decide for the Arab world?

Alberto Fernandez: I reject the idea that the future of the Arab world, which we respect, just as we respect its glorious history... (I reject the idea) that the future of this region is in the hands of people such as Al-Zarqawi and the so-called Emir of the Believers, Mula Omar, who, unfortunately, are mentally retarded. I believe that the Arabs deserve more.

Man: Sir, you will not decide for us what clothes to wear. Let us wear whatever we want. These people will decide their own fate. Do you want to make our clothes for us? Let these peoples make their own choices. Why are you interfering in these matters? Let the peoples choose. If they choose Abu Mus'ab or Abu... Let them make their own choices. They will try them, and if they want to topple them, they will. If they want to elect the Muslim Brotherhood...

How do you judge the Muslim Brotherhood merely by their intentions, while I am not allowed to judge you by your actions?

Alberto Fernandez: These are contradictory ideas.

Man: No, they're not.

Alberto Fernandez: First people criticize America, and say it is guilty of keeping silent about the actions of the Arab regimes. People, both here and there, are demanding that America supports human rights.

At the same time, I hear people say: "No, we Arabs must make our own choices, and Arab oppression is acceptable among the Arabs." By all means, sir. If you want to drive America out - go ahead.