Description
Radical leftist group established in 1975 and named for the student uprising in
Greece in November 1973 that protested the ruling military junta. Anti-Greek
establishment, anti-US, anti-Turkey, anti-NATO group that seeks the ouster of US
Bases from Greece, the removal of Turkish military forces from Cyprus, and the
severing of Greece’s ties to NATO and the European Union (EU).
Activities
Initially conducted assassinations of senior US officials and Greek public
figures. Added bombings in the 1980s. Since 1990 has expanded its targets to
include EU facilities and foreign firms investing in Greece and has added
improvised rocket attacks to its methods. Supports itself largely through bank
robberies. A failed 17 November bombing attempt in June at the Port of Piraeus
in Athens coupled with robust detective work led to the first-ever arrests of
this group; trials began in March 2003.
Strength
Unknown, but presumed to be small. Police arrested 19 suspected members of the
group in 2002.
Location/Area of Operation
Athens, Greece.
External Aid
Unknown.