[Ranger]

Slightly off topic but do you think breaking Iraq up into 3 countries makes sense? Its probably better from a democracy standpoint than appointing our own strongman to rule the place.

[swarthyguy]

What the US has done for the Kurdis is correcting one of the great historical wrongs of the 20th Century.

The Palestinians get all the world's attention but not the Kurds, screwed by everyone, neighbors, colonial powers and even the US in the 70's have achieved more of a modern tolerant society than the others.

I think we have to work hard and strong with the Baathis to create conditions for a halfway peaceful transition. The Shias have overplayed their hand and should be forced to accept a secular society. Period. Problem is, having a democracy means a theocracy in the south.

Heck. Don't understand why the old borders of the collapsing British Empire have to be so sacrosacnt. Kuwait, Iraq, Pak/Afghanistan Durand Line.

Problem is, three states create too much trouble for America. Or, take Mosul Kirkuk and turn them into Ramstein Kadena.