Many analysts have predicted that following a military attack on Iraq, the Kurdish population would almost certainly use that as an opportunity to declare an independent state occupying parts of Turkey and Iraq. This is something that the Turkish military have warned could destabilise the region and effect Turkeys relationship with the US.
Iraq: Turkey May Use Force To Prevent Kurdish State](http://www.rferl.org/nca/features/2002/10/14102002140037.asp) Radio Free Europe
ANKARA, 14 October (RFE/RL) – Turkish Defense Minister Sabahattin Cakmakoglu says Turkey might well use military force to block formation of an independent Kurdish state in Iraq.
Cakmakoglu said today that Turkey would not tolerate such a development. He said that if deterrent force fails to restrain Iraqi Kurds then Turkey could opt to use active military force.
Prime Minister Bulent Ecevit said in published comments yesterday that developments are dragging Turkey into a war.
Turkey has expressed reservations about a proposed U.S. military operation in Iraq to topple Saddam Hussein’s regime. Cakmakoglu said today that Turkey does not want a war. But, he said, if the United States intervenes in Iraq, Turkey may be forced to protect its interests.