"It is a compliment to the United States that our enemies and friends expect more of us, that they hold us to a high democratic standard. "
I think it's more likely that opponents are just latching on to any negative thing that drifts by and hoping to get some mileage out of it. Not because they hold us to a 'high standard', but merely because they can get away with it. I also don't really care. It's not necessary to look for approval from others to do what is right.
And I dont hear the Arab or Muslim world apologizing to us for these acts, either, I hear them rejoicing over it!