[Lent]

against Iraq as long as it does not lead to an independent Kurdish state

This is impossible. It is unrealistic and the Turks know it. Their concern is that independence there will foment hope for nationalist aspirations of Kurds in Turkey. Moreover, how can Iraqi Kurdish help be enlisted without promises of independence? The most which can be offered is that the U.S. will side with Turkey in its position with respect to Turkish Kurds. A fair trade-off.

[a_Turk]

independent Kurdish state

Soon as one is created, we'll annex it.