Rebel violence on rise in south

Foreign Minister Abdullah Gul reiterated a call for the United States to take action against Turkish Kurdish rebel bases across the border in Iraq.

''Of course, we expect international cooperation in this issue," Gul told private NTV television. ''But we know how to deal with our enemy."

Asked whether Turkey would consider boosting forces in northern Iraq to fight Kurdish rebels, Gul said: ''We would do whatever is necessary for our security."

"Turkey already has 1,500 troops backed by tanks and other armor in northern Iraq to monitor rebel actions and prevent cross-border infiltrations."

This has spilled over into Iraq. Coupled with the problems farther south, this country could safely be considered a mess.

Arf