"It would be unacceptable if they (the Kurds) entered the town to take control and set up an administration," said the diplomat, who requested anonymity.

"What we are trying to find out is whether they entered in coordination with US forces or whether it was a spontaneous act," he said.

Turkey would not be worried if the Kurds "entered the town in a few trucks to offer their people a show and if they leave by evening", he added.

US and Kurdish forces entered the strategic oil centre on Thursday after a popular uprising, according to representatives of the two sides in Kirkuk.

SPACE.WIRE