Quote Originally Posted by Crocodile View Post
Wow! Have you started speaking disparagingly about the entire race??!!! Makes me wonder ...
First, they're not a race. The Arab world is composed of different races. What makes them united is the Arabic language (and culture). Thirteen centuries ago, the only countries that accepted Islam but retained their language were Persia (Iran) and the Ottoman Empire (Turkey). Others adopted the Arabic language, which gradually resulted in a cultural change, but that doesn't change their race. So, my statement wasn't a racy one.

Second, yes, in a broader sense, my statement might seem to be disrespectful of their great culture. But it's got nothing to do with race. Iranians' dislike of Arabs is more of a cultural/historical matter. Throughout our history, Arabs have not proven to be the perfect people to team up with. So maybe we should learn a lesson or two from history? In my opinion, one of the most venomous aspects of my country's foreign policy is the strong reliance on Arabs.

And last, if all the above is not enough, I offer my apologies to any Arab who might be reading this. I stand in awe of their deep-rooted culture. And our historical clashes bring me nothing but sorrow.

Actually, some of my own countrymen in south-western provinces are of Arab descent. I have many friends among them, and have enjoyed their hospitality on several occasions. They're honest, courageous, and extremely patriotic.

@Crocodile: Only you could make me say all that! A racist is the last thing I could be, hand on my heart.