Callmelshmael - "... we attack when attacked ... "
When was the US attacked by Iraq exactly ? Or even Saddam Hussein ?
Now , what was it you were saying about non sequitur ?

Benzo, Nr Chelmsford,

just read Noam Chomsky and you will learn the real story of so called "war on terror" :) Jefferson and other forefather would have been ashamed of these morons running USA now!!
Neocon basically ruling the whole usa policy, and they will push usa to attack Iran, then whole hell will break!

olcer, nyc, usa

the day of redemption is near

vinod, warsaw,

John Smith, Edinburgh, Scotland wrote: "The US can attack with impunity, even after being caught audio-bugging the 'lesser' UN countries during private discussions on wether or not to support the US in it's war against Iraq."


John, do you know what a non-sequitur is? That's when the second part of your argument doesn't follow logically from the first, as in that "bugging" comment. What does bugging have to do with "Attacking with impunity?"

The United States doesn't "Attack with impunity." We attack when we are attacked. We don't allow our enemies the cover of deniability, plausible or implausible. All of our potential enemies have by now been disabused of that misapprehension. If you're thinking of attacking the United States my advice is, lie down until the feeling goes away. It's far less painful that way.

CallMeIshmael, Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, U.S.A.

Israel can attack with impunity.

The US can attack with impunity, even after being caught audio-bugging the 'lesser' UN countries during private discussions on wether or not to support the US in it's war against Iraq.

So, why not Turkey ?

John Smith, Edinburgh, Scotland

Cyprus issue should be investigated more because I m sure that noone who is talking about this subject have no idea of EOK which is an illegal organisation killing innocent citizens of Turkey in cyprus and making them run away from cyprus upon in 1970s.I want to be invesitgated that question : how many greeks are killed during 600 years Ottoman Empire ruling living all in Greece and Cyprus and how many Turks killed by EOK?
As for the Kurdish subject, it is the America itself not the Kurdish citizens who wants to have a new, unorganised, poor country in Iraq that can be controlled easily by US to have control on oil prices and preventing the developing super powers like China,Russia to develop more.Same attitude made in 1991 to prevent Japan economical development by attacking Iraq and raising oil prices.
In Turkey,everybody has the same right and more than %80 of kurdish doesn't demand a new country.(please refer to the last election made in Turkey and votes given to DTP)

Murat, Istanbul, Turkey

Turkey is NOT an ally or friend of the USA or anyone else. Friends don't threaten and humiliate friends. Friends don't take money from other friends and then turn around and act like they don't owe any allegence. Funny how Turkey isn't too proud to come begging to the US for money. I recall we forgave a 9 billion dollar debt to the ungrateful jerks. I say it's high time America put Turkey in it's place and show them who's really the boss!

DAB, SF, CA

The rule, according to the USA ,is that any country reserves the right to go after terrorist who have attacked that country. More importantly, the USA has designated the PKK a terrorist organisation. Shamlessly, the same USA have asked Turkey to "hold off " even as they are in the planning stages of attacking Iran on the flimsy if not laughable grounds, that Iran is assisting their Shia [brothers] in the war. I guess the lives of Turks are less valuable than those of Americans.This is what happens when principle becomes the unwanted orphan and expediency wrappped in lies, the alter ego. I wonder if the Neocons who did the planning for the invasion of Iraq saw this coming?
Who am I kidding; these are the same bright sparks who permitted their soldiers and contract workers to loot thousands of irreplacable artefacts from Irag, for sale commercially in the USA, immediately after the Iraqi goverment was removed from office. What a country!

Andy Jones, Smiths, Bermuda

I m regularly reading many european paper,and looking for to see if any paper mention them as a TERRORIST. There is none. I think all theese paper in wrong or all theese papers purposly doing this. I m asking here now... TO ALL EUROPEAN NEWSPAPER. Are they terrorist or separasist kurdish militants-like TIME mention-.Militants and terrorists two (very)differant word and mean differant.Theese people killed more then 30.000 people,included tausends kids and baby.Seriously baby 4-5-6-7-8-9 months 1 year -2 years-7-9-10-14-15-17-20-25-30-40-59-60-65-70-....years old live. Over thirtytousand. Now. What are they. Militant or terrorist ? !

can bulunmaz, bristol, england

Bush is right about his starting world war III but he got the second step wrong. It won't be an American attack on Iran, it will be Turkey moving into Iraq in the next few days.

Bush's government has ignored Turkey for 5 years now, the trust is zero and the Turkish government cannot save face with it's own people by continuing to follow the Bush policy of doing nothing and getting nothing but dead Turks in exchange for being loyal to Bush

WWIII gets closer

JC, Milano,

It's now or never, We must stop PKK !

M.G., st-niklaas, Belgium

It is about time that Turkey and Turkish establishment, the public & the media wake to the reality (Ataturk dream is over, the world has moved on since). Reality is that there are up to 20 Million KURDS live in Turkey and about time they admit it and deal with the issue peacefully and democratically instead of closing their eyes as they are doing now. There are NO basic democratic rights for the KURDS in Turkey. This view is backed by reports by various EEU groups who reported on the state of the KURDS in Turkey.Turkish government still do NOT recognise the KURDS as such and this is more shocking given that Turkey wants and desperate to join the democratic EEU. The KURDS want a peaceful solution and proposed so for years but to no avail and the Turkish military and Turkish nationalist establishment responded with more denials and more repression year after year.

Mariwan, Winchester, UK

Wow, too many Turkiye experts around here :) And the article is about Turkiye and Iraq not Cyprus eh ? Anyways, we are learning to play by US rules so I think our US friends here will understand us better than anyone else.

Bulent Cosar, Istanbul , Turkiye

Perhaps the anti-Turks (the usual suspects - Greek nationalists, Ms Pelosi etc), should look a little harder at the Armenian massacres. The Kurds were a main protagonist, indeed, the worst outrages, during the "march of death" to Iraq, were carried out by Kurdish irregulars and brigands.
Kurds have had strong brigand tendencies since well before Marco Polo.

John Maynard, Cranbrook, UK

It is really frightening to see that many Americans just comment without knowing what is really happening all around the world because of their country's wrong policies and ambitions. Please try to put yourselves in others' shoes(soldiers dying at the age of 20 trying to defend their country with only a few months' army experience, mothers' losing their children because of terrorists, so much money spent on weapons that could instead have been used on education, health, environment).

Ozden, Istanbul, Turkey

MORE THAN one hundred million Arminians were victims of
GENOCIDE by the Ottomans in 1919.

This remains the worst example in human history of a Country gone amuck. Hitler, Stalin, and Saddam Hussain combined at their worst, fail to compare to this mass slaughter of humanity.

Now, another "leader" of the same Country is determined to become as hidious, under the pretence of self protection, as those mentioned above.

The people of Turkey should curtail any form of aggression put forth by the insanity of Erdogan.

"Free nations of the world" will be watching and ready to do defend and protect others when necessary to stop aggression.

Art Conte, Downey, USA, Ca

The United States created a potentially immense new problem in the Middle East in the 1991 Iraq War when it created an autonomous Kurdish state in Northern Iraq which wants full nationhood. for itself and Kurds in neighboring Turkey, Iran, and Syria. Now the mistake is coming home to roost.

An independent Turkenstan is not a good idea, and Turkey has every right and necessity to defend itself against Kurdish independence and expansionism.

It will be disastrous, in my view, if the Iraq Kurds get control of Kirkuk's oil, because it will fuel a program of Kurdish independence over parts of three nations.. Talk about destabilizing the middle east, once again American policy has created a huge new problem for others.

Randolph Phillips, Shiloh, GA, USA

For whatever song these people sing, we have to dance. Heads I win and tails you lose!

Turkish PM, Erdogan is slowly showing his true Islamic hardliner cover!

Turkey should never be admitted to EU. One never knows when an Islamic nation joins hard line Islamic group of nations throwing secularism out to the nearest sea!

For long-range interests, it is better if Kurds and Turkey, both US allies, show some restraint instead of fighting each other!
Regards,

Krishna R. Kumar, Udupi, India

.......and, Iraqi Kurds need to step up and deal with the PKK before Turkey steps in. Kurds have shown they can govern themselves. Why allow a relatively small group of knuckleheads {PKK} destroy their future?

bluecollarbytes, USA,

Christian Chan wrote:

"From Philippines: As a Christian I 100% agree with the prime Minister of Turkey that his nation of Turkey has the right to defend his nation from the Islamist Kurdish terrorists backed by Iran who are attacking Turkey! I urge America to support Turkey in this instance!"

The PKK is not an Islamist organization. Far from it. They are secular adherents to a Stalinist brand of communism.

Will, Fort Lauderdale, FL, USA

Why is everyone drumming on about EU. Turkey has the absolute right to defend it's self!

It's OK for the US and Israel to go into other countries when they are attacked by terrorists, but it's not OK for Turkey! Are the lives of Americans and Israelis more valuable then the lives of Turks?

The PKK have been found with American weapons! I wonder how that could have happened?

Ne Mutlu Turkum Diyene!

Mehmet, London,

pkk kills not only Turks but also Kurds and people killed by pkk were innocent Woman, Children, Man, Soldiers who have Turkish Citizen and live in Turkey. That is why TURKEY, USA, UK, EU and other NATO Countries class pkk as TERRORIST GROUP.

Don't look at the symbolic meaning of its name. it is not party and pkk terrorists aren't rebels or separates. Only pkk tries to collect partisan from Kurds and other countries by using its name. There isn't any problem with Kurds here. We live all together. There are also Turkish Citizens who are Kurds in our parliament. pkk has killed 30000 Turkish Citizens till now and pkk still continues to kill innocent people as you saw yesterday and in past.

Finally, all Turkish Citizens who are Turks, Kurds and other people who live in Turkey want to keep their lifes in safe. Terrorism is the problem of all people and terrorists must be flushed up from our world wherever they are. Now we certainly know that pkk terrorists are sheltering in Northern

omer, Istanbul, Turkey

Two Israeli Soldiers kidnapped and the whole world is outraged (over a 1000 civilian killed in return). Over 30 soldiers killed and the west asking for restraint.

Mike, Cardiff, Uk,

I do believe, for the world freedom current Turkey is unpredictable and a big portion of its society and its rulers are able to repeat such a crime like the one as the Armenian Genocide any time. . Turkish nationalism – with its deep religious roots- which is being systematic promoted by Turkish government (in order to blackmail democratic countries) is not less dangerous than the NAZI SS and the ideology of “Al-Qaida…


just becuase many Turkish politicans think ADAM and EVA WERE INDEED TURKS and AS THE TURKS CAME TO ANATOLIA THIS WAS A NO AMNS LAND
I hope I am mistaken but..
Turkish nationalism can be cause of WW III, Turkishnees ahs this portion to instigate WWWIII ,
just because Turks reagrds themself as a choosen nation


1- We shouldn’t forget that out of six principles defined by Kemal Attaturk one reads as fallow:
“Turkish nation/people is in no way indivisible there are NO non Turkish minorities and languages in Anatolia allowed” (No place for others! ). ...

Independent, Hamburg, GR

Turkey has a 600 year Islamic history. Under the Ottomans and before that under the Seljuks, Turkish Moslems invaded Europe and conquered it up to Vienna. Even Venice came under its sway. During this time European boys were kidnapped and taken back to Turkey to be trained as Janissaries in the Turkish army. Some were castrated and served as eunuchs in the pasha's harem. In all lands conquered by the moslems the local inhabitants became "dihmmis," or second class "citizens" required to pay special taxes to be allowed to practice their own religion. These outrages are still regarded (by Muslims) as examples of Muslim "tolerance."

Turkey's history of secular governance is less than 100 years old. It began under Kemal Ataturk who overcame fierce resistance from fanatic Moslems after the fall of the Ottoman Empire in 1922. Today,Turkey is reverting to aggressive Islamism coveting the lands of its neighbors. So let's hear no more about our "friends," the Turks. They're no friends of ours.

CallMeIshmael, Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, U.S.A.

Terrorism in Turkey
Yesterday 12 soldiers were killed and 13 were killed a week ago.Turkish Army is fighting this evil for nearly 23 years .The force of pkk has decreased through these years. As an example in 1994 they were wondering in groups of 100 man. But now , the size of the groups fall to do it . This is the success of Turkish Army . But there is a question Why do the Turkish Army can not finish the terror? This question is a sign of that these people are unaware of what is happening around them. THE pkk Ä°S BEÄ°NG SUPPORTED BY FOREÄ°GN COUNTRÄ°ES.
Turkish Army will solve the problem in the future.We sould move together with both civillian and military forces.We should not forget that there was't, there isn't and there won't be a (so called) Kurdish Confederation in our land.We will not let them.

As ATATURK said:
"When the motherlanf matters ,the rest is not important!..."

emre , ankara,

I'm an American in Turkey and understand the need for stability in the region. But, who in their right mind can expect a country who has its soverienty at threat to stand by at the direction of the any other country? U.S. interests are at steak for America but, Turkish safety is directly threatened and is presently being tested. I would always wish for a quiet solution but, If Turkey is being attacked I, understand ,completely, their need to stop a threat at any cost. Keep in mind, Turkey is is being invaded. What could anyone say to America if they actually did anything about the illegal immagrant invasion? Nothing. Unfortunately, that's too late. The reason I no longer live in America is that I've seen firsthand what people living in a country without assimalating does. Cancer only grows... At least Turkey's literally trying to prevent its problem and not acting like it's not happening.

Mike, Izmir, Turkey

how the hell are you calling "PKK-Terrorists" as rebels or fighters? shall we call al-quida terrorists as "jihad fighters"? do you want to read Turkish televisions or newspapers in this way? will it not disturb you? did PKK-Terrorist bomb west part of Turkey ? Izmir Kusadasi Antalya etc How many tourists died? Did you call them as Kurdish rebels or Terrorists? in afganistan is Turkey fighting against terrorists? does Turkey support terrorism in Iraqi? is Turkey a member of NATO? Did Al-quieda bomb English properties in Istanbul ? who is helping USA to fight against terrorism? i believe that with a little empathy you can find logical answers.EU and USA has to be sincere.If PKK is declared as Terrorists, name or call them as terrorists? in the middle of London if somebody says or claims Usame Bin Laden is a jihad hero? will you arrest that somebody? how do you feel like?

Hakan Demir, Istanbul, Turkey

Let me tell you mister Dave M. from London that most Turks do not want your precious E.U., if you look at recent Public Opinion polls. The reason is that few people, except traitors like Orhan Pamuk would want to join a bloc filled with petty feudal states who criticize the national institutions, talk about "Kurdistan"( which we view as being funded and supported by the British, Americans and Israelis), democracy( when the imperialist countries ignore their dark histories against their colonial subjects) and "genocides". Turkey is not going to restore the Caliphate. For one the Armed Forces will never allow that!In future I suggest that you broaden your sources when speaking about Turkey, and not relying on the "word of mouth" of far right Christian chauvinists. Thank you!

Uluturk, Lefkosa, North Cyprus

Long before there as a Turkey there was a Kurdistan. There country carved up by the Brits in what is now northern Iraq, Eastern Turkey and western Iran. Turkey is s no different than Israel occupying someone else's land. Ever since this new P.M. has been elected their relations with the west has spirled out of control. No wonder no one wants them in the EU.

Ryan, New York, USA, NY

In recent years Turkey has repeatedly shown its open hostility to the United States. Anti-Americanism and Islamist fundamentalism are rampant throughout Turkey and have been since before we occupied Iraq. When our Third Infantry Division requested to be allowed passage through Turkey to attack Iraq from the north they were rebuffed. This required the 3rd I.D. to detour around the Arabian Peninsula which took several weeks. This lost time cost us Saddam's escape and launching of his guerrilla war which cost over 3,000 American and coalition lives. So NATO ally or no, Turkey refused to help us when we needed them.

Today, Gen. Petraeus has had startling success with the occupation. We don't need the Turks. We should establish permanent airbases in Northern Iraq (Kurdistan?) and support Kurdish self-determination. It's past time for an independent Kurdistan. Screw Turkey, Syria, Iraq and Iran! If Turkey no longer seeks our friendship, the Kurds will be happy to be our friends.

CallMeIshmael, Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, U.S.A.

First, a terrorist is someone who targets civilians.

If you target a bomb making factory and you KNOW that civilians are working in that factory, that is NOT terrorism because the target is the factory.

What if you target the factory workers with the intent of killing all the skilled labor? This isn't for the purpose of causing terror, but is still a terrorist act, because (once again) you are targeting civilians.

So, is the PKK a terrorist organization? If they are targeting civilians they are. If they are only targeting military units and installations, then no.

It's a mute point because, in either case, since the attacks are originating from Iraq, then Iraq has an obligation to either stop the attacks themselves or allow Turkey to stop the attacks.

My solution (and i have NO idea as to the practicallity of this solution) but why doesn't Northern Iraq buy that part of Soutern Turkey in question (all details of this suggestion omitted for obvious reasons)?

Jon, USA,

I vote for the PKK. Turkey, they took their homeland. I would be mad too. ASk my frined in USA. One time the british thought George Washington was a terrorist. Now he is a hero.

Assad Muhammed bin Jaafari, Munchen, Germany

Dave M of UK/USA and Lalaland,

How sweet it is to be hated by your ilk. You just need to sharpen your Turkish hatred skills. There is not 50 but 75 million of us for you to hate.

Have a feast. and don't forget to stuff the EU charter as dessert

Omer Iskefyeli, London, UK

To the deaf and blind...
It is impossible to say that PKK represents Kurdish people. If you don't live in Turkey you can never see the reality. Kurdish and Turkish people have never had problems up to now. I want to tell you something. One day after one PKK attack, a man told in a interview that "I and family are also Kurds. But we don't want these things!"There are a lot of Kurds who have been killed by PKK? Lots of Kurdish men defended our counrty against PKK in army and killed by PKK! Open your eyes, those who don't want the see the truth. That person who says "Turkey you reap what you saw". To see the truth you have to come and talk to Kurdish people in Turkey. (but of course not with PKK militants.) We dont have problem with Kurds, our problem is PKK!

Gül , İstanbul, Turkey

Teror is everywhere teror. England,USA and the many countries mark PKK as a terrorist in their lists. But the press of west ( as your newspaper...) just say "rebels" for the terrorist. How do i belive the justice of west? Teror is everywhere is teror. We were, as Turks, with you in all terror events in your countries. In 11thSeptember The Twin-Towers, Spain the Railsatation Bombing...etc. But you never with Turkey any terrorist attack. Who is wrong ? Me or your justice !
By the way; Talabani said "i talked to terrosits and they said me that they'll stop the attacks."
How a president may talk to terrorists? Does Bush may talk to their famous terrorist? Or England with IRA, or Spain with the BASKs ? Your terrorist is "global", mine is "lokal" or as you said "rebels" ?
No...
But your press sholud to understand this. "TERROSIST IS JUST A BLOODY TERROSIST. PKK IS THE MOST BLOODY ONE." You agree or not...The truth is just one, and this is the clear truth. What's your thruth then?

Dinçer, İstanbul, Turkey

About 20 years ago, an Armenian author did a study of the slaughter of the Armenians. He concluded that strictly speaking it was not genocide. On the other hand, it is said that Hitler saw that basically nothing was done about the slaughter (though the U.S. did something, at least) and concluded that nothing would be done if he slaughtered the Jews. He did so. Note that some even argue that the Holocaust was not genocide, since more than Jews were slaughtered. This shows that the exact word used is not the important thing. Many do not accept Colin Powell's use of the word "genocide" regarding Darfur. That does not mean that it isn't terrible and worthy of condemnation. Nor does its terrible nature mean that it is wise of Pelosi to try to pass her resolution; and even more so, when getting the votes of Armenians in California seems to be one motive behind the effort. When John Murta and 8 former Sec. of State oppose the measure, that is worth listening to.

Richard L.A. Schaefer, Dubuque, Iowa/USA

US Goverment has declared that he is responsible for maintaining the integrity of Iraq. If Us Goverment has seen its self as a authorized unit of Iraq but do not stopp the attacks of PKK. He becomes the main responsible of the attacks. This means that US goverment is supporting PKK case. This means that US goverment is supporting terrorist group.This means that there is an un announced war between USA and Turkey, which Us Goverment has not announced and Turkish Goverment has not noticed yet.

EHEYBELI, ISTANBUL, TURKIYE

If the civilized world is ready to let Albanians create an independent state on Serbian land and so-called Palestinians to get another independent state (80% of Jordan population is Palestinian) then Kurds should definitely be allowed to have an independent Kurdistan and Turkey, Iraq, Iran and Syria must not oppose that!

Lenny, New York, USA

IImagine a terrorist attack carried out against a whole military unit in their own land, killing 12 and capturing 8. unbelievable isn't it ? Just imagine this before your eyes and you'll have an understanding what Turkey has to deal with. That s exactly what happened near Turkey-Iraq border. We are not talking about a small group of soldiers here, a whole unit of 150 soldiers were ambushed. How many terrorists would it take to ambush a whole military unit equipped fully with heavy weapons at their home land? At least 300-500 terrorists right ? So can anyone imagine such a large group gathering in Turkish land ? Of course they ve come across the border! If Iraqi government sits and watches those attacks, instead of securing their side of border from terrorists, then we got no chance but to name it as an act of war! Those who name those terrorists as rebels, should also know that, this sunday a wedding convoy was also targeted by PKK. More then 10 innocent civilians died..

Oguz OKAY, Ankara, Turkey

I support the Turkish view that they should be able to defend themselves. America is not the "world police" and cannot be seen as having a casting vote for or against action in any arena of the world. Lets face it, what legal right did America have for invading Iraq ... WMD's? Al Quaida? Bin Laden? Oil?! Give me a break .... Its about time a nation other than the US showed some initiative, determination and courage to tackle rebels/fanatics/terrorists

Edward Oldfield, Chester, UK

agreed on a lot of comments, even if they were opposing each other. it's hard forming an opinion on how world leaders and military should behave. war will always seem necessary. america has an almost absent culture regarding heritage and history, lest you're native to her. when someone asks us "what's your heritage" we wouldn't normally say american, if we did that would say a lot in itself. this dangerous absence in regards to relating to cultures in war, is easily seen as ignorance (no disrespect to troops, who coincidentally have a large percentage of black and latino people,which of whoms ancestry was enslaved in order to start this land) a plus to not having strong culture: fighting for our home isn't in our blood like most military ruled countries.the delicate balance should allow us to see the whole spectrum of what we all want. kurds, independence back and recognition.turks, respect regardless of political morals favoring apologies...but it seems we want whatever we can get..?

Z TH Z, New London,

Friends, you are talking such things that PKK are terrorists and so on...
But if you lived in Turkey , then, you would see the difference...
In fact, the Turkish Republic is treating the Kurds by the ways of State Terrorism, so why don't we all admit that Turkey itself is a Terrorist State such as Iran ,Syria ,Iraq in Saddam period(But not now) , and also North Korea...

Bave Dijwar, Damascus, Syria

I kindly ask everyone not to make assertive commands on Turkish and Kurdish people unless they have historical knowledge on the subject.
It has to be understood that PKK is a terrorist group, and does not represent the Kurdish population living in Turkey. Kurdish and Turkish people have been living together for more than a thousand years on this land.
Also all of you should know that early in the morning the army has found 45kg of explosives at three different locations around an elementary school in Diyarbakir, a city with the highest Kurdish population, and a city with many Kurdish representatives in the parliament. So if this was an act of "Kurdish rebels", I guess they would not choose a school which has 200 little kids including many Kurdish at the age of 7-11 inside.
This is terrorism, a global threat supported by some awful political games, killing humans,not "soldiers". Now we have to get together against it, not only Turkish and Kurdish,but all of us,for a better world..

Ozgur Kara, Istanbul, Turkey

There is nothing more to tell after the comment of Steve from Phoenix, US. He has underlined the matter correctly.

yeka, essen, germany

Turkey should go ahead and hit these PKK terrorists. Because kurds want not just to kill and hurt Turks, they want half of Turkey, they want Diyarbakir and some other eastern cities. They should know that this is impossible untill the end of the world.

Armenians also want the same. They think that Rize was their capital city once and they want that back.

Turkey must stay cool and fight against these little people who are supported by "west". Wests end is soon. They are getting old.

djem, paris,

Turkey has every right to defend itself and should have been in the EU a long time ago

ron, Kent, uk

it pleases me to see you have referred to it as the Kurdish region rather than Kurdistan as there is no such place .

Marie, Newcastle,

Why people should be raised against other people in this region if not for oil and for few people wealthiness ? It is a bit disappointing when some of us uncritically focus on breaches instead of financial interests. War is always directly linked to financial interest, if not, why should a country commence a war ?

ll, Paris, France

Turkey is vitally important to the US and to peace in the world. It provides a "buffer zone" between Western and Eastern world views. Its massive army is so strategically important in maintaining "peace" with its mainly hostile neighbours. Do you think that other Islamic states are happy to see Turkey, a Democracy, so friendly with the West? No - they hate it for it.

Irene, Fethiye, Turkey

Someone commented early on about how hypocritical the US is in urging restraint on military action by Turkey, yet sided and encouraged Israel to almost obliterate Lebanon when only two Israeli soldiers were kidnapped. Right on!! The irony is that the US invaded and occupied Iraq based on LIES. Many comments have incorrectly said the US had a right to defend itself from Iraq's attack on the US: Iraq has never attacked the US on 9/11 or any other time.

S. H., New York City,

Full Speed Ahead Turkey! You will not have to fight with both hands tied behind your back. Our US military is failing for one reason and one reason only Poitics. We will see just how a real fight is won. Victory first then warm fuzzys. To make an omlet you must crack a few eggs. Why dont we outsource our wars to countrys with the heart and soul to to wage a quick leathal victorious effort.

John, Reno,

John Townley, Reno, Nevada

One thing the Turks won't have to deal with is a press that's the propoganda arm of the enemy. They'll do what it takes to nullify the PKK and won't have a bunch of left-wing whiners crticizing their military's every move.

blaine, Raleigh, NC

Gosh, we (the USA/Turkey) have been screwing the Kurds over for a hundred years and they've sat still for it. now, all of a sudden, they've decided to take matters into their own hands (while maintaining the fiction that the PKK is not an "official" Kurdish group, natch). Who could have predicted the inevitable? Here's a biblical quote for you, Dubya-> "You reap what you sow". Enjoy your bed, homey, hahahahahahaha........

sean douglas, Tampa, FL

Turkey is getting what is deserves after "Turky has killed millions of Armenians, Greeks, Maceodnians, Serbians, Bulgarians and other Christians" Turkey is Guilty of Genocide and should had over Cypurs to Greece since Cyprus is Greek. Enough with the Islamic jihad against all Turkey Time to get some of your own medicane, they "Turkey" Will not even let Christans run churches there and we let them into Nato and EU? GO KURDISH !!!!! Americans Support You!!!

Michael Armstrong, Cleveland , USA / Ohio

I think mr erdogan in a big fire, he dont wants to pkk talks to the newspapers, the truth pkk wnts to peace and still they wants, i dont know why mr erdogan and his general afraid of peace. Before be to late stop killing people pls, Yesterday 35 solders killed. for sure 3500 pkk solder can win the war.pls give a chance to peace pls

jayjay, stafford, uk

We must stand together against to any kind of terrorism since we are sharing same world. This is humanity, rest of the ideas are leading us to hell. I hope to have some hope to see peace

john, US,

Yurkey's citizens have cast their lots with Osama and Ahmadinejad. They should not be admitted to the EU and they are certainly entitled to defend themselves. The US should withdraw military presence in Turkey, expel them from NATO and stop any and all monetary support to Turkey.

Roberta, LA, CA

PKK Terrorists can not be rebels. Can anyone say IRA, ETA was a rebel ? Usame bin Laden is a rebel? Turkey has the same right as USA

Huseyin Salih, Ankara, Turkey

The Democrats in Washington are doing whatever they to lose a war they voted for before they voted against. The Turkish people, and the Kurdish people for that matter, are right to be upset at the political calculations of the Democrats. Most Americans love Turkey and are willing to embrace it as a friend and ally. There is no reason that the Turkish and Kurdish peoples cannot work out their differences and live as friends and neighbors.

Ryan, Tampa, Florida

I find it appalling that Turkey would act without the approval of the UN.

James, Libertty, NY

We never hated from the kurds some of us may be but not a considerable majority.. And EU is trembling with fascisist movements towards the strangers not turkey.. Our country wellcomed almost 1 million kurds and arabs during the saddam regime and Persian gulf war...

Muhammet Ali Dede, Istanbul, Turkey

It is stultifying to attempt to comprehend the incoherent comments on this page. Why must people make comments when they clearly have no understanding of the issues involved. Turkey is being attacked by a terrorist organization based in the Kurdish territories of Northern Iraq. This is a separatist organization attempting to establish a Kurdish territory in Southern Turkey. If Mexico started allowing terrorist organizations to conduct raids into the Southwest United States with the goal of reuniting the territory with Mexico, would that be okay? The majority of the population in the area is Hispanic afterall. Is there any doubt that the US would meet such excursions with overwhelming force? Turkey is not threatening to attack Iraq, Turkey is threatening to attack terrorist bases in Iraq. If the US and Iraqi government cannot bring the PKK under control, then Turkey should defend themselves. And anyone that talks about a Caliphate in Turkey is ignorant of its secular history.

Steve, Phoenix, USA

Turkey has every right to defend itself but linking the PKK to anything current in Iraq is just silly - and very dishonest. Is everyone forgetting that the PKK was causing problems and attacking Turkey for 20 years or more?

This issue far pre-dates Iraq now and even the Gulf War of 1990-1991. The problem is these PKK people are some real hard cases and they reside in a very difficult area so flushing them out and controlling them is no easy task for anyone whether the Iraqi Government or the Turkish Army or the Kurdish Government. I would be very curious to see what if any progress the Turkish Army can make against them.

MAR, Kansas City, Missouri, USA

its hope for a peaceful solution, but if the Turkey claiming the right of self defense!
we in north Iraq have also: The Right and Duty of Self Defense ! In this issue “Turkey is Making a Big Mistake”

Karzan, Erbil, Irak

I think Turkey has the right to seek and destroy terrorists where ever they are. I seem to remember another country saying the same thing.

Chuck G., Ball Ground, Ga

I am shocked that Kurdish rebels are able to go head to head with Turkish military units and inflict as much damage as they are able to do. It seems like Kurdish rebels have equal or more advanced weapons than Turkey or possibly better training than Turkish soldiers. After all Turkish military is largely made up of civilians who are doing their mandotory service not hard core trained military personnel. That may prove devestating for Turkey if they invade Northern Iraq. There will be a blood bath in Northern Iraq both sides giving many many casualties. Otherwise I am all for Turkey's right to defend itself against terrorists.

Matthew Ackerman, Sandiego, CA

Careful not to provoke a gentle giant Turkey, the USA has shown much restraint in the Middle East. It is Iraqis killing Iraqis, we are trying to help the Iraqi people. Why is this so hard for you people to understand?

Shane, Charlotte, NC, USA

Turkey is a valuable friend and ally. Turkey was our steadfast ally in many conflicts and Turkish and American blood has been shed to bond that relationship. This friendship is more than words or slogans. It should be appreciated and treasured.

The US should do all in it's power to pressure the Kurdish regional governemnt to expel the PPK. It is time to choose sides, and we should side with Turkey.

Robert OLeary, Port Ludlow, WA

Turkey has been and is a great friend of the west. Our leaders need to either assist our friends as we would expect it ourselves or provide proper justification as to why it has not been given. As Turkey has stated, they are being targeted and have the right to defend themselves. Iraqi troops and US troops in Iraq should be handling this anyway but if they will not then they should at least provide support for Turkey to clean up the mess.

hans, montgomery, alabama

It is shocking that Kurdish rebels are able to cause as much damage to Turkish military units as they are able to do. They seem to have as good weapons as Turkish soldiers. They may actually be better trained than Turkish soldiers since most of Turkish military is made up of civilians who are seving their mandatory military service. I don't see many NCOs or officers getting killed in these conflicts.If Turkey tries to invade Northern Iraq there may be many many casualties on both sides. It is not an easy task to invade a city and subdue the population as can be seen by the casualties of the US Military in Iraq. US military is by far the best trained and equipped military and they are failing in Iraq. I am worried that Turkey may make a mistake by invading Nothern Iraq with a military that is not properly trained and equipped. Why don't they try pounding the suspected targets from the air and not risk too many lives?

Matthew Ackerman, SanDiego, CA

Go ahead Turkey, get into a big military mess and see how long it takes you to go running back with your tail between your legs.
The Soviets found out in Afghanistan, and the US found out in Iraq.
I would have thought Turkey would have learned from the mistake the US made in Iraq, but I guess not.
Guess the Turks will have to learn the lesson the hard way shipping thousands of troops home in body bags.
This thing could be worked out with diplomacy.
"A big mistaken you be maken."

Michael, Toronto,

turkey has, in essence a government controlled by the military which, in its interests, has denied the armenian genocide, invaded cyprus and is systematically abusing the rights of another minority (kurds) and then tried to blame the long running insurgency on external forces (iraq/us) - pathetic.

what's even worse of course is that most of the people who voted in their recent elections voted for this guy and his party, who eventually want the perfection of an islamic state - also pathetic.

it is, of course, everyone elses fault that all this is happening. the pope was right the first time round - turkey is in permanent contrast to Europe

simon, sydney, aus

The truth is, a dangerous game is being played on Turkey.
The iraqi goverment president is a Kurd and you know who put him on that chair and you know who has the power in Iraq.

Iraq and US can stop the PKK easily but they choose to not, if you ask why? look for the answer yourself.
Turkey is not only fighting the PKK but also fighting other countrys that support PKK and the turks know who they are.

Ottoman Empire was the biggest Empire in the world and it lived and ruled for 600 years, when countrys joined and distroyed Ottoman tens of millions of turks were killed, at the end Turkiye was born.

Turkey has the second biggest army in NATO and they should not be underestimated.

I hope turkey will find a solution for the mess in Iraq.

VATANSEVER, Paris,

First of all I would like to suggest to some people commenting on issue; perhaps it's better to get more information from both side of the story before you comment or do not comment at all if you have nothing intelligent to say.
Do not get confused PKK is a terorist organisation and it doesn't represent all kurdish people at least not turkish kurds.In south east Turkey yes the population is mostly kurdish origin turks but not the whole area population is.There are from many different ethnicity people living peacefully in Turkey. Any country has got right to defend their own land from all sorts of attacks.Because Iraqi kurds got their own state (by siding with US and throwing the rest of the country in caos) that doesn't mean that they will get a part of Turkey too.Iraqi goverment clearly backing PKK (not surprise that the puppet goverment's president Talabani is kurdish),Turkish goverment has waited enough, for the sake of not interfering US' oil interest in the region!..

N.Ellsen, Leeds, UK

This is the time for Turkey military action mopping up teror PKK. 85 million Turks except action, no one can stop Turkey any more this is our time..

murat korkmaz, turkey, turkey

Laughable that Bush-Blair-Brown backed Israel all the way when it bombed Lebanon into ruins after two soldiers were captured by Hizbollah - now the same clowns are urging restraint on Turkey !!

John Maynard, Cranbrook, UK

The Turks has the right to defend herself. Whether like it or not PKK is a terrorist group that has been killing innocent civils since 1984. So stop calling them as "rebel". What is the matter with you guys.
Turkey is a member of NATO hence if she is attacked,NATO has to take its place just by Turk ey.
The Turks does not hate Kurds. More than 95 % of Turkish Kurds minority live in Turkey with peace. 3.500 PKK terrorist has showed a great attrocity and murdered nearly 40.000 turkish troops ,civils as well as civil Kurds and even women and children. The Turks are not the only one who hates PKK .

emy, LONDON, UK

Mr. Bush, the Congress, and those who voted for them, are responsible for the whole mess. Instead of wondering about Turkey and Iraq, the cause of the mess should be remedied. We are just going to keep making messes, until then.

Wayne, Des Moines, NM

I am very skeptical that the estimated '3,000 to 3,500' Kurdish of the PPK are doing the damage that it is done to the Turkish forces. The Turks have an estimated force of 100,000 men along the frontier with Irak and not even a mosquito should be able to pass into Turkish soil from Irak. The attacks keep happening because of one of two reasons a) The Turkish military is incompetent or b) there is a great deal of support from the population in SE Turkey. I do not think the Turkish military is incompetent and therefore I conclude that the problem exists because of the political oppression within Turkey. Because Ankara is unwilling to face the problem in a realistic and straightforward manner is throwing a smoke screen to the world by blaming it on 3,500 fighters. They have invaded Irak in the past and the problem still exists. Turkey must do a lot of soul searching

Ariston53, New York, USA

A.B., Boise, USA/ID wrote:

"We have to do some serious damage control now. This is Bush's last chance to do something! Bush must fly to Turkey in PERSON and promise the Gov't that WE the American forces will keep our promise to fight terrorism even in the Kurdish Area."

Maybe he should get on his knees too. You think? Do you really think the U. S. should grovel before the likes of the Turks? They showed how much they value our friendship When the Third Infantry Division wanted passage through Turkey for a Northern Invasion of Iraq. The Turks denied us even though they are a NATO ally pledged to support us. As a result, the 3rd I.D. had to go through Kuwait which wasted a lot of time. Meanwhile, Saddam escaped and launched his guerrilla counter-attack. Causing the lives of over two thousand of our troops. Thanks Turkey! Don't hesitate to ask us for favors when you need our friendship!

CallMeIshmael, Fort Lauderdale, Florida, U.S.A.

CallMeIshmael, Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, U.S.A.
said: "So Turkey is going to invade Iraq? Have they seen the problems the U.S. has had there? Do they think they will experience greater success?" First of course Turkey is going to be successful in that action. The U.S. is not successful because they are not trying to kill terrorists they are just trying to get more oil... Also, how can you think the U.S. will get into a war with Turkey to protect Iraq? If they do so god help America because N. Korea, Iran, Syria, Pakistan and Russia will all take their chance to attack America. Turkey has the second strongest military after the U.S. so if two countries get into a war that will start the WWIII.

Gokhan, San Francisco, USA

Gerald King.....Americans are starving?

Are you kidding me? Anyone in the U.S. that goes to bed hungry each night have only the face in the mirror to blame. Isolationism didn't work. Socialims didn't work.

You have the right to the Pursuit of happiness there pal. The pursuit...you understand that concept? You are free in this country. Free to do well but just as free to fall flat on your face. It's your choice as are the ramifications of your choice.

Tom B, Atlanta, USA

Hey Adam in Dubai..... was the PKK building a nuclear reactor? I missed that part in the article. Please enlighten me.

Tom B, Atlanta, USA

As a Turkish citizen, I truly believe that PKK and its secret supporters aim to pull Turkey into the mess of Middle East. Do you really think that it is just a coincidence that PKK terrorists attacked just after parlament's giving the decison right for crossborder operations to the government? Do you really think that it is just a random decision for PKK to attack right on the border of Iraq and ran towards Iraq afterwards? NO. Turkey does not want war, and now unfortunately going through a difficult period on a difficult land that became a bigger mess after the U.S. intervention. Terror is unacceptable, not only in Turkey, but everywhere else. This is a struggle of all humanity. And as highly popular media organizations, The Times and the others have to be more objective and accurate through research-based news. I really wonder why some terrorists are being described as 'rebels' (as in PKK attacks) whereas some others were described as 'militants' (as in Palestinian attacks).

Esra Kahveci, Los Angeles, CA

If the Turkey/Armenian resolution is approved it will be a disaster.The Liberal Democrats are the real enemies,
Pelosi,Reid,Rangel,Stark,Clinton- - Remember Carter's
mid-East policy?Remember slick willy Clinton's Somalia.
Wake up America!

anthony, Venice,

Turks need to realize Europe won't let them in because they'd compete too well - same reason Russia will never get in. Those central European countries were let in not because they're advanced but because the West needs new cheap labor, cheap scientists, and cheap raw materials to exploit. Places like Hungary for example have sold off every company and national asset they had to westerners; it's basically a nation of laborers.

Turkey is better off alone.

phil, State College, USA

To Andreas, Dimitri, Richard e.t.c...

You have to ask why the Turkish forces interceded in Cyprus- this arose through the indisputable need to protect the Turkish minority who were at risk of persecution from the EOKA-B terrorists- supported by the military dictatorship in Athens- who had taken no time at all in deposing the the government of President Makarios.

Many in Ankara and the international community at the time were considerably alarmed by the fact that a facist government were looking to cultivate and sponsor a horrific civil war on the island, resulting in the possible genocide of the Turkish minority. One other concerned group was the British military, with a strategic presence on the island, who preferred and accomodated the perceived 'lesser evil' of the Turkish invasion, even in spite of the destruction and suffering that followed- knowing full well that the knowledge of the presence of British troops in the SBA's would curtail the Turkish advance southwards.

Darren, Greenhithe/Dartford, United Kingdom

PKK, North Iraq Kurds and their supporters (USA,Israel) will face harder consequences of their actions against Turkiye!
Turkiye is getting hurt with its sons' blood bleeding all over again but those responsible from the attacks and their supporters will get hurt soon or later and it will be very costly for them!!!

Emre, London, UK

Istanbul belongs to Turks not to EU nor anyone else. since 1453 accept it and move on.

burak, malta,

Don't underestimate the turks. Their military is among the strongest in the region. They also have joint defense and training with idf. A disaster in the making if we don't stop this chain of events. They could very well be in Mosul in 48 hours, cutting our supply lines and start mopping up all kurds whether military or pkk from mosul back to their borders.

joseph victor yazbec, jacksonville, florida

Go Turkey Go!
That's it PM. Go invade PKK camps ...

Bianchi, Milano, Italy

Congratulations Prime Minister..

selim atal, trabzon, türkiye

For an attack took place in Newyork, US (the one that we felt extremely sorry as Turks,like the rest of the world), US sent its troops all over the world to find the terrorist and their leader. Of course it was an honorable decision and proper action to defence thier own nations rigths and security. Now we have lost tens of thousands of youngsters who you call soldiers, innocent people, babies...The US has to admit that Turkey needs to do proper action no matter what it takes. And US has to support its only REAL ally in Middle East. There is one thing behind the all provocative declarations of kurdish leaders (!), I believe: Increased oil prices by chaos in the Middle East and wealthiness which is going to be income of super high petroleum prices. They are so relaxed despite the parliament's permission of military actions. Because they know Turks will never hurt innocents and will just target terrorists. An military operation will give them what they just want...

Honour M., Istanbul, Turkey

So Turkey is going to invade Iraq? Have they seen the problems the U.S. has had there? Do they think they will experience greater success? What will they do if the PKK follows through with its threat to blow up the pipelines? What will they do if the U.S. decides to defend Iraq? If we do, do the Turks not fear this will create an Iraqi groundswell of support for the U.S.? Before they burn their last bridge of support for their membership in the E.U., the Turks should ponder the consequences.

CallMeIshmael, Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, U.S.A.

We have to do some serious damage control now. This is Bush's last chance to do something! Bush must fly to Turkey in PERSON and promise the Gov't that WE the American forces will keep our promise to fight terrorism even in the Kurdish Area. We should absolutely do what Turkey wants because they control our suply line to the Troops. Northern Iraq has been the only peaceful part of the war. The Kurds have been very cooperative and for 3500 of their extremists to do this, MUST STOP! We should show Turkey that we will turn over these leaders. Bush should get off his mountain bike and take action, personally speak with Turkey and give a speech to the Kurds (Who did dance in the streets when Saddam was hung)

AND SHAME ON THE DEMOCRATS FOR MAKING THIS WORSE! BY ANGERING TURKEY. THE DEMS KNEW THEY DIDN'T HAVE ENOUGH VOTES TO PULL TROOPS OUT OF IRAQ SO THEY DECIDED TO SABOTAGE OUR SOLDIERS BY CUTTING OFF THEIR SUPPLY LINES! HOW DARE THEY! I HAVE LOST ANY RESPECT FOR THEM!

A.B., Boise, USA/ID

Good for Turkey. Nice to see at least one European politician speaking plainly and openly to the US Government about its national interests. Better than our fawning, grovelling, self-serving politicians in the UK.

Neil, Gloucestershire, England

No one would like to go to war but If any group attacks your ctizens & army in your land What would you do? Instead of saying to Turkey DO NOT go to where all attack comes from why don't you tell Iraq goverment to stop PKK and instead of using Gun use the mind, talk & pen and spent all money to educate people civilaze them instead of make them live in Mountains...

A D, London, UK

ı think most of the commenters dont know anything about our region and its realities
Although EU and USA promise to arrest the leaders of PKK -the terrorist organization - they are not believeable.

Just like USA's FREEDOM promise for Iraq.

victor, ankara, turkey

Almost everyone in the world knew that the U.S. invasion of Iraq would have disastrous and unforeseen consequences. Now we see just how bad the region has become thanks to the warmongers that unfortunately run our Government. The people here in America have little say and amazingly we are headed towards an unprovoked attack on Iran. God save us all.

Mark, Harrisburg, USA

Turkey is being attacked by military forces from a neighbouring country, she has every right to defend itselfand I would expect her NATO allies to support it.

stephen miles, london, UK

The problem is that nobody helps us , the nato and the eu are only talking talking talking.... like in a talkshow, but the fact is that 40+ turkish soldiers are died, only in one week!!.

M. Atatürk, Istanbul, Beyoglu

I would ask one question for mrs. Erdogan
Why do they hate kurds so much? Would be much easier to become friend and have diplomatic contacts with northen iraq which is called Kurdistan. But they still deny that there is a separate admistration in Iraq and as they call they would fight agaisnt terorist. I've liven in kurdish part of turkey for 10 years and all i see the goverment terorised the peolpe by killing them legaly and illegaly by itself or by using the "mafia" and turkish "hizbullah"
I ask again; What would u call terorism like?
to fight aganist a army for your indipendet or is killing civilian because of refuse to asimilate?

hannes, malmoe, Sweden

As an American , our "Big Stick"foreign policy mentality has brought us nearly to the abyss. Hypocrites in Washington assert our right to preemptively strike any country whom they feel may pose a threat to our "Policy",...not our security. Our support for dictators and puppet govt.s in the name of OIL and Resources while back stabbing our friends have made us the most feared and hated generations of Americans ever to live.
We give away the "farm" to support the bogus nation of Israel, all the while undermining our very own security and national well being. We allow the jewish state to attack and invade yet condem others who defend their nations and homelands against terror.
Turkey is the example!
Im of the Christian faith and do not support Islam, NOR THE NATION OF ISRAEL..but I believe ALL have the right to peace and security..and to be left alone...And to defend their homeland
Our enemy is the US Govt.
As a last thought for G BUSH, " Who would Jesus Bomb?" Who would CHRIST kill?

mark, kure beach, North carolina

If I understand the obligations of NATO correctly an attack against one NATO country is an attack against all?

PKK may not be a sovereign force - but neither was Al-Qaeda in Afganistan - and yet the USA expected NATO support for that (justified) incursion. Can someone please explain to me what (apart from hypocrasy) is different here?

Why don't the USA and for that matter most EU countries have an obligation to support Turkey morally and logistically, should Turkey call upon that aid?

Ed, Munich,

Turkey is big and powerful country and it is able to defend its lands from the attacks. For long years, Turk and Kurds are living on these land peacefully. Last week, pkk terrorists killed our soldiers and some of them were Kurds.. Now, pkk says that they are defending the rights of Kurds.. How is this? By killing.. A lot of Kurd and Turk mothers are crying after their losing of their sons.. In every city of our country, we have got graveyards for martyrs..In which europe city they have got this kind of graveyards with full of dead bdies of young boys and soldiers...As US attacked to Afghanistan lands from miles away in order to find the organizers of 9/11 events, Turkey has an obvious right to defend its lands and people from the seperatist terrorist movements..

ismail, Ä°stanbul, Turkey

There is a very big misunderstanding about Turkey's behauver on this stuation.

First of all Turkey was a guarantor state for Cyprous as England and Greece.

Secondly Turkish Prime Minister called scholars of every country inluding Armanians but they didnt come to search reality.

Eventually mentioned in the article that terrorist rganisation PKK came from Northen Iraq to attack soldiers.

This legally forced Turkey to respond this kind of attacks.

victor, ankara, turkey

Firstly I can't understand people who commented as "Turkey occupies the Cyprus" or "Turkey's illegal invasion of Cyprus". I am asking those people; what would your government do if your citizens are killed by Turks in Cyprus??? Tell me please, because the only answer I can think of is they would go there and protect their citizen. Secondly, I am totally and utterly shocked because some people are still living in past and saying names like Constantinople. Yes ISTANBUL was Constantinople once but it was ages ago, yes most of the Turkey was under Roman rule but it was ages ago. And here in earth "ages ago" is called as ANCIENT HISTORY. There have been wars around the world and the border lines are changed a lot of times but it's only Greeks (not all of them) who still insist that we should leave our cities to them. Why don't you think it other way round; if you can still claim Istanbul then we should claim some land from Greece because it's been ruled by Ottomans once. But do we do that??

Seda, London/UK,

First of all, if Erdogan wants to get in to EU, this doesn't mean that the Turkish people want the same thing. 85% of the 75million populated Turkiye don't want any relations with the EU. Even though the goverments of the EU don't want to admid, the EU is collopsing and having so much problems within itself. And Turkiye with youngest populated and with biggest land in the area. EU is afraid to deal with such big country. That's why they always put weird and unfair conditions in front of the Turks. Cyprus, Armenians, minorities, religion etc. But nobody askes Britan, France, Italians about what they did to Algerians, Tunisians, Libyans, Indians, during the WWI and II. Everybody is clean as Angels but Turks!!! And I wonder where those people read the history and the daily situations who comments about ethnic, minority discrimination in Turkiye.We've living with Jews, Armenians, Christians for centuries but nobody has a got to see this. Fell sorry for those who doesnt have any clue:(

MY, IZMIR, TURKIYE

Who says americans and europe rule all world?TTurkey must defend its borders and its citizens. 21st oct not first attack by PKK, bomb explore everywhere in Turkey.

However, PKK is a terrorist organisation as declered by US and UK, you may remember this was the reason why US troobs still in afganistan and iraq(?)Now it is time to ask, what is going on there???where is UN? Try to see bigger picture than what we got now!

Abby, Wales, UK

Perhaps condi and her handlers need to be reminded that the turks are a nato country and the u s is obligated to defend a member from attack, bottom line let the turks blitzkrieg northern iraq and bring the entire oil farce to the coming end,

r chisolm, dallas,

those accusing Turkish Government, go back to school and read some history books and try to be as objective as possible. oh also read Howard Zinn's A People's History of the United States! Istanbul is Ä°stanbul and will stay so no matter how much you cry.

Matt, istanbul, Turkey

Turkey: Americans love you for the most part. Let the Kurds have their own area to run. They seem to do a good job of handling their own affairs and dealing with the terrorists. They might make good neighbors if you let them.
Don't let the Democrats make you upset. Rather, tell the World that Democrats are Socialists who want to destroy Freedom and want Big Government. Democrats do not speak for the Majority of Americans who welcome the Turks to the table of friendliness.

T.C., Anchorage, Alaska

USA might be help the TURKS!!

Allen, Detroit, USA

"Iam an american Citizen i think turkey should defend their self. They r very good friends and the democrats in our country are causing a real mess i say to heck with. That bill what happen over 50 years ago its the past let it die. On both sides. Turkey and us should let the matter drop about the past but i believe turkey should defend its self they been there for us we should not turn our backs on us. Despite our relations with the world i want 2 assure the people of turkey i am for our good allies turkey and i support u guys."

Da wayee you are speakee is kind of strange, ain't it, Mr Sanchez? Are you sure you are an American, not a Turkish citizen? Check your passport....

Andy, Prague, US

What I am unable to understand, is just why a people wish to have their own country back (in this case the Kurds) as I understand it there is nothing remarkable about the piece of land they claim, and the Turks dont actualy love them, and it would sove the problem at a stroke

Michael Rudd, Barking, Essex

If we are talking about "terrorism", it is ver obvious that it must be stopped. I would like to remind that why USA is in iraq now. The answer is to stop the terrorist attacks to their country. What we call for the both case is terrorism. Turkey has a right to defend itself as the others do freely !

Everbody must be sure about it, only terrorists and may be supporters will be terminated

M. CoÅŸkun , izmit, Turkey

Defend yourself Turkey. The Iraqi government does not have the human resources and commitment help defend and people are dying. Turkey has played their role in being patient and diplomatic with the US and the Iraqi government. Its time that Turkey take care of their country and defend their people. Who fights better then their own people anyway?

Yen Tan, Darmstadt, Germany

The United States should allow the Kurds and Turkish people to settle their dispute as they see fit and not get involved in their conflict. I want the U.S. to take care of its own and let others do the same.

Wayne, Houston, TX

The other points aside, Erdogan has a very good point about EU membership. The EU has allowed numerous backward European countries who were our enemies for 50 years into the EU, but won't let in Turkey who sided with us against communism! What's that all about? I'd rather have Turkey in the EU than them.

J Roberts, Manchester, UK

Dear Times,

You really should explain the meaning of the word "Taqiyya".
Turkey has elected an islamist government. They are looking
to break off rapproachment with the West and revert to islamic form. Death to the infidel, etc.
Yes, the PKK is a terrorist organization and yes, it has provided
the perfect excuse for Turkey to invade Iraq, but the destruction
of the PKK is not the islamists' goal, that goal is the rejection
of the West, with all excuses flying.
I'm not sure this is a "terrible thing". It's worth knowing who
your friends are, who your enemies are. Turkey has
voted for the latter, but in full Taqiyya mode. Perhaps they
can restore the "caliphate".
It doesn't matter. Events are rapidly coming to a head.
Better to let Turkey show it's true face than admit another fifty
million hard core islamist terrorists inside the unprotected
borders of the eu.
But what about the supply lines to Iraq? We will keep them
established, one way or another. Upon that you can be sure

Dave M., london, USA / UK

Thanks House Speaker Nancy Pelosi. Now fix it......!

Jerry Balon, Georgetown , IN

International press should be really careful in choosing the right words to publish in the news since the current situation won't let such things to be tolerated. PKK are not "Kurdish rebels". They are "terrorists" and do not represent the Kurdish community in Turkey or anywhere else. This is already confirmed by several governments in EU and also in the USA.

Ugur Aktay, Delft, The Netherlands

Someone should warn Recep Tayyip Erdogan that if he comes anywhere near attacking American interests that then he will find out that he will for real have to defend his country against odds that he will not like.

Garry, BRUNSWICK, New Jersey

I also support Turkey to Defend itself!!!!

Mike-Vermont, St. Albans, Vt

Some comments are really unbelievable. US goverment can attack another countries for own defense and security like iraq and afganistan. Thats mean faraway more than 10.000 km from US.
And Mr. President said to Turkish goverment "you can't make any attack or anything else for defend" this is unacceptible.
PKK is a terrorist group and they kill innocent peoples. And we have international rights for defend our self. We will do everything for defence, and we don't have any problem with Iraq people. Just we destroy terrorist enemys.

Ozzy, Istanbul , Turkey

It seems that Turkey is about to plunge the region into more chaos, just when things were beginning to "work" in Iraq and just as al Quaeda was being defeated (and, by the way, they are being defeated. I hope your media is telling you the truth about this.) On the other hand, one can hardly expect Turkey's people to stand by and watch their soldiers being killed in cross-border attacks. The comment made earlier here likening Turkey to Israel, which also has the right to fight back against terror, is a good one. I just hope this doesn't turn into a bloodbath.

Stephen A., Manchester, NH USA

Jasper, I completely agree with you. We have to many families starving and doing without here in the US. We need to put our money in OUR US CITIZENS and OUR COUNTRY and let the rest defend them selves. I say we also need to quit out sourcing to India. If you call WaMu aka Washington Mutual, you will be directed to India Call Center. How is that for security!

Gerald King, Birmingham, AL, United States

All I have to say is that you reap what you sow, Turkey. For generations, Turkey has mistreated the Kurds (just like Syria, Iran, and Iraq) and now the Kurds are pushing back. What a bitter irony for them.

The US (and other Western powers) are left in an awkward position. We either let Turkey kill more Kurds (oh, I'm sorry "terrorists") or we stand up to them and say, "hey, Turkey, why don't you recognize the right of the Kurds to have their own homeland. Or is that land's vital resources getting in the way of that recognition?"

I'm amazed that the Western powers aren't doing more to push for a separate Kurdistan state. Pelosi and her cronies want to push for the Armenian genocide recognition but not that? No, no, that would be too inconvenient for states like Iran, Iraq, Syria, and Turkey to even conceive.

Turkey needs to do some soul searching...they wonder why Kurds are attacking their military, look no further than their own harsh treatment of the kurds in their country.

EB, Virginia,

Teror is teror in every where. No bady can ask to Turkey must keep quite after 40.000 people die for teroe. Question must be this "If it was in my country, what i have to do for it?" Mr. Bush and Sarkozy, Talabani and Barzani have to answer this question. Turkey is helping all Nato and EU countries for against teror but those countries are not helping Turkey even helping PKK terorist.

Irak, USA, France, Greece, Armenia, Russia, Denmark, Belgume, Swiss, Norway, Canada, German, Holland, Italy, Cyprus, Austria, Finland, Sweden and Israel have to think again.

Ata Turkoglu, Istanbul, Turkey

If USA and Iraqi governments keep helping the the terrorist group "pkk" and do not hand the leaders over to Turkey then Turkey has every right for incursion. As Mr. Erdogan said "Nobody asked for permission when they came from thousands of miles away to conquer Iraq"

Saddam didnt do anything USA but they killed kim and now a terrorist group is killing Turkish soldiers but people saying Turkey shouldnt do anything about it. what! are you guys kidding?

alex, Newcastle upon tyne,

Erdogan is just trying to project an image that he is in charge of the military. The recent destruction of a Syrian nuclear facility by the IAF with Turkish military help, reinforced the fact that Turkish military leaders are in charge of Turkish military operations. Turkish military leaders have always held a leash on destablizing effiorts by the country's civilian government. This is the way Kemal Ataturk wanted it. If the Kurds truly are staging their attacks from northern Iraq, I beleive the Turks have the right to defend themselves-including offensive action in Iraq. There are many sides to this issue. However, it cannot be denied that Iran is the most destablizing influence in the area. Any action by Turkey that ups the credibility of Iran will unltimately comeback to hurt Turkey. The relationship between the Republic of Turkey and the USA in the last 70 years has always been a close one. Erdogan's threats seem more reminiscent of radical Muslim regimes.

AOT, Gahanna, OH, USA

It is interesting to see how people are ignorant all around the world about others' problems. I am sure that I am ignorant for other issues in world as well. Anyway, Kurdish terrorism (yes they are terrorist not rebellions. Saying "rebels" should sound romantic if you are not living in Turkey) is not a problem of yesterday. It exists for the last 20 years and it costed about 30.000 lives in this country. Please remember that US and its allies attacked to Afghanistan and Iraq just after a massive terrorist attack (and yes it was a terrorist activity) in US. Therefore, why does it so difficult to accept that another country (other than US) can make a military operation (even it is not an invasion of a whole country)? Having said about the genocide, lets also talk about the innocents killed by EOKA militants (another paramilitar organisation established by Cyprus Greeks) before Turkey's Cyprus operation (which was backed by an international guarantorship agreement).

GB, Istanbul, Turkey

The Pkk are not islamic terroists, they are communist . it would be wise for some contributers to research the facts before they write. I think PKK realy need to pull back from any possibility of upsetting Turkey any further and try and find another way of providing the Kurdish with their homeland. PKK have to understand they will only gain more enemies if they just provoke more war.

Sarah Nadir, colchester, England

Turkey has the right to defend themselves. For some reason Americans think they are the only ones that can march into other countries and exact their will. It's time that we bring our troops home, not just from Iraq, but from Japan, South Korea, Germany, and the 90+ other countries where we have troops stationed. We cannot afford to subsidize a failing foreign empire and a growing welfare state at the same time. One of them has to be sacrificed.

Josh, Baltimore,

I am a Turkish resident; i have very good American friends; i like your tv shows, some of your culture, your technology etc. But you must understand that we must defend ourselves. They are attacking us, and they come from northern iraq; attack and run back to northern iraq. That is why we need to enter northern iraq or iraq goverment must arrest terrorists. Iraq goverment already stated that they wont arrest/stop the kurdish terrorists. Then we have no choice. We will enter to northern iraq and will do our job ourselves.

Emre Bayram, Ankara, Turkey

Amid all the brouhaha about the risks the Armenian genocide resolution poses to the U.S.-Turkish strategic alliance, glaringly absent is any discussion about the moral imperative to speak out against genocide denial.

Raphael Lemkin, the Polish-Jewish legal scholar who coined the word "genocide", invented the concept partly on the basis of the extermination of the Armenians in 1915.

Lemkin, who lost 49 members of his family during the Holocaust, said the following in an 1949 interview with CBS on the UN Convention on Genocide:

"I became interested in genocide because it happened to the Armenians; and after[wards] the Armenians got a very rough deal at the Versailles Conference because their criminals were guilty of genocide and were not punished."

Mr. Erdogan is wrong: the veracity of the Armenian genocide is not subject to debate; it’s settled history. What's in flux is the process of introspection by many Turks to re-learn their own history.

Garen Megerditchian, Montreal, Canada

Turkey has a right to defend herself against PKK aggression.

Joe, New York City, USA

Terrorist are Terrorist and if the PKK are in fact striking into
the territory of a U.S. ally then Turkey has the same rights as
any NATO member of expecting support of protecting their
citizens. Diplomacy is always better than violence. Terrorist
don't operate that way.

KDC, Little Rock, Arkansas USA

Well, Mr Erdoan would do well to recall "What goes round, comes round! as they say in the US. They and the Turkish 'establishment' are victims of their own making up of history and their 'role' in the region. Turkey's has been adapted ever since they were 'allowed' to remain in what was Asia Minor, after the collapse of the Ottoman Empire, by doing the bidding of the various powers in the ongoing so-called "great games". They have often played their role very succesfully - especially during the 'cold war' - where their millitary, cosing up to the US, often got away with the sort of behaviour they now accuse others of doing. But their role and 'strategic importance' is not so clea