Billmon has an argument as to why this was in fact a victory for al Qaeda/terrorism. Again, I disagree with this argument, although Billmon makes a very compelling case.
We have to remember that (as far as I understand Spanish politics) there were two diverging realms in Spanish politics. Economics, in which case Spain has done exceptionally well, and (for lack of better description), the War On Terror (for which even though Iraq should NOT be included, I will keep it in here for simplicity sake.
Spaniards were VERY opposed to Spain's involvement in the War on Iraq, while presumably they supported the overall goal of dealing with terrorism (why, you ask? Its obvious - no compelling case has EVER been made that Iraq was involved with al Qaeda).
On the flip side, they were probably pretty pleased overall with the economic boom that has hit the country.
While things are ok (or at least, quiet) with the War On Terror, people remembered how good the economy is.
Once the War On Terror came to Madrid by force, people are once again reminded of what they hated about this government...and not only did they revile this policy, but now this despised policy has made them targets too.
But the bombing was not the catalyst - it was a reminder or wake up call.
This was not a victory for al Qaeda.
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