They've had a 15 month ceasefire, and even launched negotiations with the Spanish government - seeking a diplomatic resolution.
Today they announced an end to their truce and a spokesman said it would “take action on all fronts to defend the Basque Country.”
(pic: Time Inc.)
Of course, they blamed the Zapatero Spanish government for their latest action.
Rather than engage in the blame game for this depressing development, let me pose a larger question:- how should governments respond when their terrorist-enemies declare ceasefires and truces? What is the best way to respond to them? --- accept them at face-value, use the opportunity to negotiate? or reject it out of hand as a ploy - perhaps to buy more time or ingratiate themselves with others?
In other words, how should governments react when their avowed enemies suddenly offer to lay down their arms????????
This question obviously is not confined to Spain. Israel, the US, turkey, Phillipines, Thailand and many other governments are fighting groups they call terrorists and insurgents.
My personal thoughts - generalized:- ceasefires and truces by all such groups should be supported by governments and others. Most of these conflicts do not have a military solution - inevitably it will be diplomats that forge a political solution - yes, a compromise - between the warring parties. Faced with that truth, the question then becomes one of timing:- when do we begin those negotiations - at the first opportunity? or delay for more advantage?
I don't think Spain made a mistake in talking to ETA. I can only hope that over the months of negotiations some good-will was established between the respective leaderships that may be preserved until the next ceasefire and inevitable round of negotiations. Let's hope they'll be more successful.
