ABSTRACT
This chapter deals with the forces and working mechanisms, in and by which the power of ETA and its adherents is manifested. It talks about the political initiatives and measures taken by the Spanish government to counter the influence of ETA and to break up the pact of solidarity between the terror organization and the Basque people. The conformity of objectives of Herri Batasuna (HB) and ETA is particularly evident in their common reference to the so-called 'Alternative KAS'. In the early 1980s Felipe Gonzales, the Spanish Prime Minister, proposed to the civil parties in the Basque region that they reach an understanding with the Spanish government on the basis of a minimal accord on values, but in vain. At that time there still prevailed a feeling of solidarity for ETA and therefore protests were voiced with regard to the forthcoming extradition agreement between Spain and France.
