The State Department is finally taking action in the case of official Alberto Fernandez, who called the United States “arrogant” and “stupid” in an interview with Al Jazeera TV, and also said the US was “trying intentionally to encourage hell in the Arab world.”

They’re giving Fernandez an award. (Hat tip: Starfox5253.)

Remember Alberto Fernandez? The State Department press officer was forced to apologize last month after telling Al Jazeera that the U.S. had shown “arrogance” and “stupidity” in Iraq.

Well after a month of silence, the State Department is finally speaking out on Fernandez — not to condemn him, but to praise his “integrity, courage, [and] sensitivity.”

Fernandez was selected from three department nominees for the Edward R. Murrow Award for Excellence in Public Diplomacy by Tufts University… for his work with pan-Arab media … to increase the number of appearances by U.S. officials.

He receives a certificate signed by Secretary Condoleezza Rice — and $10,000 in cash.

UPDATE at 11/21/06 10:01:16 am:

Outrages abound: Janet Reno Files Challenge To Terror Law.