[Billthedrill]

Turkey could easily become just another second-rate country: small-minded, paranoid, marginal and--how could it be otherwise?--friendless in America and unwelcome in Europe.

They've already achieved it. And it could so easily have been otherwise. Had they supported the U.S. effort in Iraq they would now share Great Britain's position - respect, credibility, clout, and a commanding force throughout the Middle East. Instead they've opted to lick the EU's boots, boots that may well end up kicking them in the face. It was a stupid decision and a betrayal of a proud people.

[quidnunc]

Billthedrill wrote: (Turkey could easily become just another second-rate country: small-minded, paranoid, marginal and--how could it be otherwise?--friendless in America and unwelcome in Europe.) They've already achieved it. And it could so easily have been otherwise. Had they supported the U.S. effort in Iraq they would now share Great Britain's position - respect, credibility, clout, and a commanding force throughout the Middle East. Instead they've opted to lick the EU's boots, boots that may well end up kicking them in the face. It was a stupid decision and a betrayal of a proud people.

The reports were that the French informed Turkey that France would block Turkey's entry into the EU if Turkey allowed us to send the 4th MI Division across Turkish territory to attcak Iraq from the north.

[Destro]

You are incorrect - Great Britain's position does not share a position of respect, credibility, clout, nor does it have a commanding force throughout the Middle East. The UK went along with America because it is standard UK policy to serve as America's closest ally - no matter what - America drives off a bridge- the UK will do so as well. Has been this way ever since America humiliated the British during the Suez Canal war.