If Only all Basques would listen. They are a nation, even if its myths date mainly from the late 19th century; and its ancient language is a thing apart. Franco squelched nation and language alike. The late 1960s brought ETA, the terrorist group that now disgraces both. Today, over 700 deaths later—a score of them in renewed violence this year—the Basque Country is Spain's Northern Ireland. Or is it? No way, say ministers in Madrid. To Mr Aznar, ETA is a security problem, period: one that can be cured (not just bandaged) by effective policing, solid laws firmly applied, and public support for both; plus international support, and getting the region's non-violent nationalists who now run its government voted out. And if all fails? It won't: the defence minister, Federico Trillo, "cannot imagine a time when the army would be used there".
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