Here's why:
* Objective: The LTTE's primary goal was to establish an independent Tamil state in Sri Lanka's Northern and Eastern provinces. This separatist aim, pursued through violence, distinguishes them from other types of terrorist groups.
* Methods: While they engaged in acts of terrorism, including assassinations, bombings, and suicide attacks, their tactics were often focused on achieving their political objective of independence.
* Ideology: The LTTE's ideology centered around Tamil nationalism and the perceived oppression of Tamils by the Sinhalese majority. This focus on ethnic identity and self-determination aligns with the definition of separatism.
However, it's important to note that:
* Context matters: The LTTE's actions were complex and multifaceted. While their primary objective was separatist, they also engaged in other activities, such as running social programs and controlling territory.
* Multiple labels: The LTTE has also been labelled as a nationalist, ethnic, and religious terrorist group, depending on the context and perspective.
Ultimately, the LTTE's categorization as a separatist terrorist group is a common and widely accepted designation based on their primary objective and methods.