re: What is the source of your assertion that...
That's pretty good reference, but there more detailed/personal look available from:
http://michaeltotten.com/
Michael J. Totten has spent a fair amount time in Northern Iraq
Check archives [and his published work] but one example is:
http://www.michaeltotten.com/archives/2007_03.html
Michael J. Totten has mostly reported about Lebanon, but next would probably be about Northern Iraq. Currently he is in Baghdad- for first time I believe. I look forward to his further reports from this region.
