Greece to Begin Trial Involving Long-Elusive Terror Group

The numbers and logistics tell the story, or at least suggest the importance of it. For this “trial of all trials,” as Greek news organizations are calling it, several million dollars have been spent to refurbish a maximum security courtroom in the country’s largest prison that also was the site of the trial of leaders of the military junta that ruled Greece from 1967 to 1974. As many as 150 lawyers will squeeze into available seats, joining 120 reporters with reserved spots. More than 300 witnesses are expected to testify, and because of that, at least five months will elapse between the beginning of the proceedings, scheduled for Monday, and the end. Greece has never experienced anything like the case against 19 defendants who are accused of taking part in the deadly “November 17” terror group, which evaded capture for nearly three decades. During that time, the band of leftist militants was linked to the killings of 23 people, including four American officials here. Now, at last, there is the prospect of justice, and the scale of the trial, along with the degree of fascination that attends it, demonstrates how keenly many Greeks would like to close an embarrassing chapter of their history. Although the proceedings will not be televised — even recorders, in fact, will not be permitted — the country is certain to follow each step. Full Story