Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad faced the American public at its most contentious during his visit to New York this week. Addressing the United Nations on Tuesday, Ahmadinejad railed against "arrogant powers," showing no signs of tiring after Monday's controversial speaking engagement at Columbia University.
While some criticized Columbia's invitation, others were eager to confront Ahmadinejad, including university president Lee Bollinger, who lambasted the leader in his opening remarks.
Ahmadinejad responded in kind, pleading victimization in the face of "unfriendly treatment," before segueing into a discussion of science and divinity — with shots at Western imperialism throughout. As thousands gathered outside to listen and protest, the ideological battle within gave way to the day's enduring message: free speech is alive and well.
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