Powell sought to allay the furor, assuring the leaders of Saudi Arabia and Kuwait that there was no intention to impose reforms on their countries.

I sense slightly different foreign policy strategies emerging on this issue ...

The Europeans have also demanded that Pakistan and Afghanistan be removed as recipients of aid ... [saying that] labeling those two countries as part of a "greater" Middle East reflected ignorance and anti-Muslim bias.

Give it a name ...

When asked in Saudi Arabia whether the US would be satisfied if the Arab League adopted a democracy resolution, Mr. Powell bristled.

"It's not a matter of satisfying the United States."

"You are a slave, Neo. Like everyone else you were born into bondage, born into a prison that you cannot smell or taste or touch. A prison for your mind ...

Unfortunately, no one can be told what the Matrix is. You have to see it for yourself.

This is your last chance. After this there is no turning back.

You take the blue pill, the story ends, you wake up in your bed and believe whatever you want to believe.

You take the red pill, you stay in Wonderland, and I show you how deep the rabbit hole goes ...

Remember, all I'm offering is the truth, nothing more ..."

Powell Tries to Reassure Saudis and Kuwaitis