IMO, there are several reason why the US has no qualms dealing
with Iraq than N Korea.
1) Oil- US is and will always be the largest consumer. If Iraq
being one of OPEC, falls into Saddam's hand, the result will be
disastrous for the US economy and military. Even though the US has
other energy sources, these are few and very expensive to run and
maintain. Its miltary no doubt has nuclear powered ships and subs,
still rely heavily on oil for their other fighting machines which
tend to be in large numbers.
2) 911 - After the twin towers came down to earth, this gave Bush
the chance to strike behind the facade of going after terrorism.
With this notion, he garnered support from his people and US long
time allies, Britain and Australia. Take note they all speak the
same language. The Europeans were not keen as they have little at
stake.
3) China and Russia - The cold war may have ended but still waters
run deep. These two will not tolerate US soldiers so close to their
borders. Not too long ago, there was this dramatic incident of a US
spy plane being forced down in China.
4) Korean and Vietnam legacy - The US have fought in both wars and
came out losers back at home and in Asia. A woman whose pleas to
see her son back home from Iraq , fell on deaf ears. The large
casualities and living testimonies of the two wars has scarred
America for eternity. Japan, being US only Asian ally, also do not
welcome US troops on their soil.
