By using such arguments, the State Department is self-destructing: you don't defend your turf by using arguments that discredit themselves.
Plus, by detaining Joel Mowbray, and then not making it clear that such a boneheaded move will not be repeated, the State Department is ensuring that it will get unfavorable press. More self-destruction.
Uh huh. I can't wait to see Colon Bowell and Dick Boucher get a well deserved black eye.