Attack? It sounded like  a peaceful substitution of Iraqi Federal forces for regional Kurdish forces. Granted, it might have gone south if the Kurds had resisted. Still, Mr. Levy's argument is quite similar to Russia's justification for Crimea. The world needs to become more accepting of multi-ethnic states  rather than allow itself to be carved up into small, weak mono-cultural ones. If a minority region wants to unilaterally  break away from its larger state, it should only be supported by the international community if it is currently being oppressed, not based on historical grievances. Like in Catalonia. (funny how so many aggrieved regions seeking independence are the wealthier part of their country.