same in Pakistan actually, we can relate to that
we bicker amongst ourselves because of domestic political issues and political or occasional ideological differences but when war is thrust upon us by enemy -- the flags wave in the street while the air force interceptors fly above in the skies and the national songs are played on tv while even vegetable sellers in the street who have nothing more than a few rupees of cash in pocket profess they will die defending their country
Ataturk to his infantry men @ battle of the Gallipoli followed the same type of values and ethos as someone radically different - a fidayeen type fighter sent on a mission of jehad.
"Men, I am not ordering you to attack. I am ordering you to die."
Iraq has always had a bloody history; and a history of coups, counter-coups and revolts.
almost sad that it's only dictators who could maintain the national discipline and ward off spies or separatist elements.
a part of me says the same about Pakistan - which always was better off economically when under the rule of Generals.
however times are changing; we should allow our national institutions to grow. One man rule has more advantages than disadvantages - except in the long-run
and we need to start thinking long-run.....instead of this bumbling through life one mistake and one blunder after the other