ETA spearheading the demand for a separate Basque nation is to continue its violent struggle against the Government of Spain abandoning foregoing ceasefire of 17 months. The separatist leadership is upset with the rudderless peace talks between the national government of Spain and ETA that are yet to reach any tangible solution. Is the threat by ETA to carry on its bombing spree of public places is more a threat than the resolve to go back to a full throttle terror campaign?
ETA has been fighting for the separate Basque nation since last four decades. But deep divisions in its rank and file and international embargos have put stringent restrictions on its resources and ability to match the Spanish army. However, its sporadic bombings and terror attacks have claimed more than 800 lives and rendered many homeless. The consequence is that the picturesque Basque region is lagging far behind in developmental process compared to Catalan, Valencia and Madrid region.
After the socialist government led by Jose Luis Rodriguez Zapatero came to power in Spain, an open invitation was sent to the ETA for peace negotiations. A ceasefire between government and the separatists was reached and political negotiations began rekindling hope for a solution. But, the ETA withdrew itself from the talks after 14 months in June citing lack of willingness on the part of the government. Vowing to hit Spain on all fronts, the separatist army carried on bomb attacks in July and August. Under domestic compulsion and international pressure, Prime Minister Zapatero is acting tough. The Spanish Army has already begun its search operations in the Basque region and many leaders of the movement are under detention in France and Spain.
Spain, already under threat by the rising global terror muscle in North Africa, must not plunge into a war with its own Basque people risking a surge in violence. But, does it mean that the government is yielding before the ETA blackmailing? Deep division in the national fabric and regionalism are greatest problems of Spain, since the days of Napoleonic wars and Basque separatist movements is one of the manifestations.
Via: Al Zajeera
