"I believe that the American administration of Iraq has been arrogant, has pursued policies that are illegal in international law and has been ignorant and incompetent. I said this very forthrightly to the senators"

Juan Cole is expressing his opinion that the American administration of Iraq has been arrogant, has pursued policies that are prohibited in global law, and has been ignorant and inept. He is making a strong declaration about the American administration's actions in Iraq, and he is not afraid to speak his mind. He is also making it clear that he has actually currently revealed his opinion to the senators, showing that he is not afraid to stand up for what he thinks in. This quote shows that Juan Cole is an individual who is not afraid to speak his mind and stand up for what he thinks in, even if it indicates breaking the status quo. He is a person who wants to take a stand and fight for what he thinks in, even if it indicates going versus the grain.