Getting a professional polishing of family Copper before the Islamic holy fasting month is a long-held custom in Tunisia.

Tunisians polish their Copper-made home products

Thousands protested deteriorating living standards outside the prime minister's office in Tunis on Saturday following a call from Tunisia's main trade union confederation.

Thousands protest against the socio-economic crisis in Tunisia

Thousands protested deteriorating living standards outside the prime minister's office in Tunis on Saturday following a call from Tunisia's main trade union confederation. Watch to know more!

Tunisia: Protests erupt against deteriorating living conditions & economic decline

Tunisia: Thousands protest against deteriorating living conditions

Three masons who were carrying out repairs of the ancient walls around the Old City of Kairouan in Tunisia — a UNESCO world heritage — died after a section of the wall collapsed.

The incident happened on Saturday (Dec 16) after a 30m section of the wall near the Gate of the Floggers crashed to the ground.

The Kairouan medina, which is surrounded by massive city walls, was under renovation when an accident took place according to Tunisia's Civil Protection.

“A team was carrying out restoration work” on the 3km (two mile) long wall that surrounds the Old City, department spokesperson Moez Tria told AFP, adding that the accident “could be linked to heavy rains in the area in recent days”.

Two more workers were said to be injured and have suffered fractures.

<h2>Site closed for public&nbsp;</h2>

Tria said a perimeter had been set up to stop people from walking under part of the wall which is still at risk of further collapse.

Located in the centre of Tunisia in a plain at an almost equal distance from the sea and the mountain, Kairouan city was founded in 670 AD, and is one of North Africa's holiest cities and a leading tourist attraction.

Its rich architectural heritage includes the Great Mosque, with its marble and porphyry columns, and the 9th-century Mosque of the Three Gates.

<h2>Historical significance&nbsp;</h2>

It was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1988, and is home to the Mosque of the Three Doors, the oldest known mosque with a sculpted façade.

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The city was also considered the capital of the Muslim world in North Africa for four centuries, before Tunis was chosen as Tunisia's political capital in the 12th century.

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According to UNESCO, the mosque is "an architectural masterpiece that served as a model for several other Maghreban mosques".

Kairouan bears unique witness to the first centuries of this civilisation and its architectural and urban development, UNESCO says in its website.

(With inputs from agencies)

Three masons who were carrying out repairs of the ancient walls around the Old City of Kairouan in Tunisia — a UNESCO world heritage — died after a section of the wall collapsed.

Three masons who were carrying out repairs of the ancient walls around the Old City of Kairouan in Tunisia — a UNESCO world heritage — died after a section of the wall collapsed. The incident happened on Saturday (Dec 16) after a 30m section of the wall near the Gate of the Floggers crashed to the ground. The Kairouan medina, which is surrounded by massive city walls, was under renovation when an accident took place according to Tunisia's Civil Protection. “A team was carrying out restoration work” on the 3km (two mile) long wall that surrounds the Old City, department spokesperson Moez Tria told AFP, adding that the accident “could be linked to heavy rains in the area in recent days”. Two more workers were said to be injured and have suffered fractures. Site closed for public Tria said a perimeter had been set up to stop people from walking under part of the wall which is still at risk of further collapse. Located in the centre of Tunisia in a plain at an almost equal distance from the sea and the mountain, Kairouan city was founded in 670 AD, and is one of North Africa's holiest cities and a leading tourist attraction. Its rich architectural heritage includes the Great Mosque, with its marble and porphyry columns, and the 9th-century Mosque of the Three Gates. Historical significance It was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1988, and is home to the Mosque of the Three Doors, the oldest known mosque with a sculpted façade. Also read | 13 die after powerful storm causes roof of sports club to collapse in Argentina The city was also considered the capital of the Muslim world in North Africa for four centuries, before Tunis was chosen as Tunisia's political capital in the 12th century. Also read | Canadian youth arrested on terrorism charges for targeting Jewish community According to UNESCO, the mosque is "an architectural masterpiece that served as a model for several other Maghreban mosques". Kairouan bears unique witness to the first centuries of this civilisation and its architectural and urban development, UNESCO says in its website. (With inputs from agencies)

Three killed after ancient wall at UNESCO world heritage site in Tunisia collapses

Abir Moussi, a prominent opponent of Tunisian president Kais Saied has begun a hunger strike inside the prison. Her lawyers claim that her 16-day hunger strike is a protest against an alleged violation of her rights to freedom and political activity. Moussi's protest coincides with a campaign to highlight violence against women in Tunisia.

Tunisia: Abir Moussi begins hunger strike in prison

Rached Ghannouchi, a prominent opposition leader in Tunisia and the former speaker of the country’s parliament, went on a hunger strike, in solidarity with a fellow political prisoner and head of the opposition coalition national salvation front, Ben Mbarek. President Kais saied is accused of oppressing opposition figures who question his regime or leadership, and the world has reacted

Tunisia continues to gag political figures

At least five people have been killed and seven others are missing after their Europe-bound migrant boat sank off the Tunisian coast, reported state news agency (TAP), on Monday (August 14). Over 20 migrants have also been rescued, according to media reports.

<h2>What happened?</h2>

Coastguard units in the Tunisian city of Sfax, “recovered the bodies of 5 migrants and rescued 23 people, while 7 others are missing, after a boat carrying mostly Tunisians but also sub-Saharan Africans sank off Sfax’s Sidi Mansour,” reported TAP. &nbsp;

Meanwhile, court spokesman Faouzi Masmoudi, in the city of Sfax, told AFP, that “35 people, most of them Tunisians”, including women and children, were on board the boat. Among those killed was at least one child and two women, said the judicial official.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-16-dead-dozens-missing-after-migrant-shipwrecks-off-tunisia-western-sahara-623251">At least 16 dead, dozens missing after migrant shipwrecks off Tunisia and Western Sahara</a>

The AFP report citing the Tunisian official said that the boat sank “less than an hour after departure”. The judicial official also told the news agency that they&nbsp;have launched an investigation into the latest shipwreck, as search operations were underway.

<h2>Rise in number of migrant boats</h2>

The latest incident comes amid a spike in the number of Europe-bound central Mediterranean migrant crossings from North Africa which is said to be the world’s deadliest, according to the United Nations.&nbsp;

According to the Tunisian coastguard, two citizens, including an eight-month-old infant, died after their boat sank on Saturday (August 12). The vessel was said to have been carrying 20 Tunisians when it sank around 2:00 am (local time) and was around 120 metres from the country’s coast in Gabes, said the officials.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-two-dead-including-infant-after-migrant-boat-sinks-off-tunisia-624920">At least two dead, including infant, 5 missing after migrant boat sinks off Tunisia</a>

Earlier this month, Mouhamed Borhen Chamtouri, a commander of the coast guard in Sfax, told AFP&nbsp;that this month the force had intercepted about 3,000 migrants in just 10 days, out of which, 90 per cent were from other parts of Africa. The recent spike has also been attributed to favourable weather conditions in May and June.&nbsp;

The eastern Tunisian port city of Sfax, which is located about 130 kilometres from the Italian island of Lampedusa, has become a key port for Europe-bound migrant boats.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
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At least five people have been killed and seven others are missing after their Europe-bound migrant boat sank off the Tunisian coast, reported state news agency (TAP), on Monday (August 14).

At least five people have been killed and seven others are missing after their Europe-bound migrant boat sank off the Tunisian coast, reported state news agency (TAP), on Monday (August 14). Over 20 migrants have also been rescued, according to media reports. What happened? Coastguard units in the Tunisian city of Sfax, “recovered the bodies of 5 migrants and rescued 23 people, while 7 others are missing, after a boat carrying mostly Tunisians but also sub-Saharan Africans sank off Sfax’s Sidi Mansour,” reported TAP. Meanwhile, court spokesman Faouzi Masmoudi, in the city of Sfax, told AFP, that “35 people, most of them Tunisians”, including women and children, were on board the boat. Among those killed was at least one child and two women, said the judicial official. ALSO READ | At least 16 dead, dozens missing after migrant shipwrecks off Tunisia and Western Sahara The AFP report citing the Tunisian official said that the boat sank “less than an hour after departure”. The judicial official also told the news agency that they have launched an investigation into the latest shipwreck, as search operations were underway. Rise in number of migrant boats The latest incident comes amid a spike in the number of Europe-bound central Mediterranean migrant crossings from North Africa which is said to be the world’s deadliest, according to the United Nations. According to the Tunisian coastguard, two citizens, including an eight-month-old infant, died after their boat sank on Saturday (August 12). The vessel was said to have been carrying 20 Tunisians when it sank around 2:00 am (local time) and was around 120 metres from the country’s coast in Gabes, said the officials. ALSO READ | At least two dead, including infant, 5 missing after migrant boat sinks off Tunisia Earlier this month, Mouhamed Borhen Chamtouri, a commander of the coast guard in Sfax, told AFP that this month the force had intercepted about 3,000 migrants in just 10 days, out of which, 90 per cent were from other parts of Africa. The recent spike has also been attributed to favourable weather conditions in May and June. The eastern Tunisian port city of Sfax, which is located about 130 kilometres from the Italian island of Lampedusa, has become a key port for Europe-bound migrant boats. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

At least five killed, seven missing after migrant boat capsizes off Tunisian coast

According to the Tunisian coastguard, two citizens, including an&nbsp;eight-month-old infant, died after their boat sank Saturday (August 12) soon after leaving the country’s shores. This comes amid a spike in the number of Europe-bound central Mediterranean migrant crossings from North Africa which is said to be the world’s deadliest, according to the United Nations.&nbsp;

<h2>Migrant boat sinks off Tunisian coast</h2>

The vessel was said to have been carrying 20 Tunisians when it sank around 2:00 am (local time) and around 120 metres from the country’s coast in Gabes, said the officials. “Two bodies have been recovered, one of a 20-year-old man and the other of an infant,” said the North African country’s coastguard, in a statement, as per AFP.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-16-dead-dozens-missing-after-migrant-shipwrecks-off-tunisia-western-sahara-623251">At least 16 dead, dozens missing after migrant shipwrecks off Tunisia and Western Sahara</a>

It added that around five people were still missing and that search operations were ongoing for them. Additionally, the Tunisian coast guard managed to rescue 13 others. Meanwhile, officials in the city of Gabes have launched an investigation to “determine the circumstances of this tragedy”.&nbsp;

Mouhamed Borhen Chamtouri, a commander of the coast guard in Sfax, told AFP on Thursday (August 10) that this month the force had intercepted about 3,000 migrants in just 10 days out of which, 90 per cent were from other parts of Africa.

This comes as the eastern Tunisian port city of Sfax, which is located about 130 kilometres from the Italian island of Lampedusa has become a key port for Europe-bound migrant boats.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/six-killed-55-rescued-after-boat-carrying-migrants-capsizes-in-channel-624852">Six killed, 55 rescued after boat carrying migrants capsizes in Channel</a>

<h2>Charity boat rescues 76 migrants in the Mediterranean</h2>

In a separate incident, a charity EMERGENCY, said that they managed to rescue around 76 migrants on an overloaded wooden boat in the Mediterranean, on Saturday (August 12).

According to the charity, the migrant boat was headed for the southern Italian port of Naples with seven women and 24 children among the 76 people and was picked up by their rescue ship named ‘Life Support’ in international waters in the Maltese Search and Rescue zone on Friday night.&nbsp;

It added that the 12-metre boat carrying the migrants had set sail from Libya late on Thursday and those rescued were from Egypt, Eritrea, Ethiopia and Syria. Italian authorities helped to coordinate the rescue and the charity boat is expected to reach Naples on Monday.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/migrant-shipwreck-in-central-mediterranean-claims-lives-of-41-623866">Migrant shipwreck in central Mediterranean claims lives of 41</a>

Separately, another boat carrying 59 migrants was rescued by Open Arms’ Astral rescue yacht docked in Porto Empedocle in southern Sicily on Saturday. Among those rescued were five children, two of whom were only a few weeks old, reported Reuters.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
 
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According to the Tunisian coastguard, two citizens, including an eight-month-old infant, died after their boat sank Saturday (August 12) soon after leaving the country’s shores.

According to the Tunisian coastguard, two citizens, including an eight-month-old infant, died after their boat sank Saturday (August 12) soon after leaving the country’s shores. This comes amid a spike in the number of Europe-bound central Mediterranean migrant crossings from North Africa which is said to be the world’s deadliest, according to the United Nations. Migrant boat sinks off Tunisian coast The vessel was said to have been carrying 20 Tunisians when it sank around 2:00 am (local time) and around 120 metres from the country’s coast in Gabes, said the officials. “Two bodies have been recovered, one of a 20-year-old man and the other of an infant,” said the North African country’s coastguard, in a statement, as per AFP. ALSO READ | At least 16 dead, dozens missing after migrant shipwrecks off Tunisia and Western Sahara It added that around five people were still missing and that search operations were ongoing for them. Additionally, the Tunisian coast guard managed to rescue 13 others. Meanwhile, officials in the city of Gabes have launched an investigation to “determine the circumstances of this tragedy”. Mouhamed Borhen Chamtouri, a commander of the coast guard in Sfax, told AFP on Thursday (August 10) that this month the force had intercepted about 3,000 migrants in just 10 days out of which, 90 per cent were from other parts of Africa. This comes as the eastern Tunisian port city of Sfax, which is located about 130 kilometres from the Italian island of Lampedusa has become a key port for Europe-bound migrant boats. ALSO READ | Six killed, 55 rescued after boat carrying migrants capsizes in Channel Charity boat rescues 76 migrants in the Mediterranean In a separate incident, a charity EMERGENCY, said that they managed to rescue around 76 migrants on an overloaded wooden boat in the Mediterranean, on Saturday (August 12). According to the charity, the migrant boat was headed for the southern Italian port of Naples with seven women and 24 children among the 76 people and was picked up by their rescue ship named ‘Life Support’ in international waters in the Maltese Search and Rescue zone on Friday night. It added that the 12-metre boat carrying the migrants had set sail from Libya late on Thursday and those rescued were from Egypt, Eritrea, Ethiopia and Syria. Italian authorities helped to coordinate the rescue and the charity boat is expected to reach Naples on Monday. ALSO READ | Migrant shipwreck in central Mediterranean claims lives of 41 Separately, another boat carrying 59 migrants was rescued by Open Arms’ Astral rescue yacht docked in Porto Empedocle in southern Sicily on Saturday. Among those rescued were five children, two of whom were only a few weeks old, reported Reuters. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

At least two dead, including infant, 5 missing after migrant boat sinks off Tunisia

At least 16 migrants have lost their lives in shipwrecks off the coasts of Tunisia and Western Sahara, said the officials, on Monday (August 7). This comes amid a spike in the number of Europe-bound central Mediterranean migrant crossings from North Africa which is said to be the world’s deadliest, according to the United Nations.&nbsp;

<h2>Death toll in Tunisia migrant wreck rises to 11, 42 missing</h2>

Tunisian authorities said that they recovered seven more bodies believed to be of migrants who drowned in a shipwreck off Tunisia, raising the death toll to 11. They also said that only two out of the previously reported 44 people missing were rescued.&nbsp;

This comes a day after a judicial official, as per Reuters, said the migrants aboard the boat, which sank off the country’s Kerkennah island near the port of Sfax, were from sub-Saharan African countries.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-30-migrants-feared-dead-as-dinghy-carrying-60-people-sinks-off-morocco-coast-607117">Over 30 migrants feared dead as dinghy carrying 60 people sinks off Morocco coast</a>

From the beginning of this year to July 20, the Tunisian coast guard recovered an unprecedented number of 901 bodies of drowned migrants off its coast, according to the country’s interior ministry. Additionally, 34,290 migrants had been rescued or intercepted, most of them coming from sub-Saharan African countries, as per Tunisian officials.&nbsp;

Local court spokesman Faouzi Masmoudi told AFP that coastguard units were searching for more survivors.&nbsp;

<h2>Shipwreck off Western Sahara&nbsp;</h2>

Officials in Morocco said that they found the bodies of five migrants, all from Senegal,&nbsp;reported AFP. They also managed to rescue 189 people after their boat capsized off Western Sahara.&nbsp;

A military source told Morocco’s state-owned MAP news agency, that the five bodies as well as 11 migrants in “critical condition” were transferred to a hospital in Dakhla, the disputed Western Sahara’s second city on the Atlantic coast.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/italy-at-least-two-dead-30-missing-after-migrant-shipwrecks-off-lampedusa-622845">Italy: At least two dead, 30 missing after two shipwrecks off Lampedusa</a>

The media report, citing the source, also said that the boat had embarked from “a country located south of the kingdom” and was headed towards Spain’s Canary Islands. However, it was discovered off the coast of Guerguart, just north of Mauritania and was in a “difficult situation,” as per the media report.

The migrants who were rescued, including at least one woman, were taken to Dakhla on Sunday and handed over to Moroccan authorities, said the Moroccan news agency citing the source.&nbsp;

<h2>Deadliest migration route</h2>

The North African coast has become a major gateway for illegal migrants and asylum seekers from several parts of the continent to embark on what has been called the world’s deadliest Mediterranean migrant crossing route in the hopes of a better life in Europe, often on rickety boats which are prone to accidents.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
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At least 16 migrants have lost their lives in shipwrecks off the coasts of Tunisia and Western Sahara, said the officials, on Monday (August 7). This comes amid a spike in the number of Europe-bound central Mediterranean migrant crossings from North Africa which is said to be the world’s deadliest, according to the United Nations.

At least 16 migrants have lost their lives in shipwrecks off the coasts of Tunisia and Western Sahara, said the officials, on Monday (August 7). This comes amid a spike in the number of Europe-bound central Mediterranean migrant crossings from North Africa which is said to be the world’s deadliest, according to the United Nations. Death toll in Tunisia migrant wreck rises to 11, 42 missing Tunisian authorities said that they recovered seven more bodies believed to be of migrants who drowned in a shipwreck off Tunisia, raising the death toll to 11. They also said that only two out of the previously reported 44 people missing were rescued. This comes a day after a judicial official, as per Reuters, said the migrants aboard the boat, which sank off the country’s Kerkennah island near the port of Sfax, were from sub-Saharan African countries. ALSO READ | Over 30 migrants feared dead as dinghy carrying 60 people sinks off Morocco coast From the beginning of this year to July 20, the Tunisian coast guard recovered an unprecedented number of 901 bodies of drowned migrants off its coast, according to the country’s interior ministry. Additionally, 34,290 migrants had been rescued or intercepted, most of them coming from sub-Saharan African countries, as per Tunisian officials. Local court spokesman Faouzi Masmoudi told AFP that coastguard units were searching for more survivors. Shipwreck off Western Sahara Officials in Morocco said that they found the bodies of five migrants, all from Senegal, reported AFP. They also managed to rescue 189 people after their boat capsized off Western Sahara. A military source told Morocco’s state-owned MAP news agency, that the five bodies as well as 11 migrants in “critical condition” were transferred to a hospital in Dakhla, the disputed Western Sahara’s second city on the Atlantic coast. ALSO READ | Italy: At least two dead, 30 missing after two shipwrecks off Lampedusa The media report, citing the source, also said that the boat had embarked from “a country located south of the kingdom” and was headed towards Spain’s Canary Islands. However, it was discovered off the coast of Guerguart, just north of Mauritania and was in a “difficult situation,” as per the media report. The migrants who were rescued, including at least one woman, were taken to Dakhla on Sunday and handed over to Moroccan authorities, said the Moroccan news agency citing the source. Deadliest migration route The North African coast has become a major gateway for illegal migrants and asylum seekers from several parts of the continent to embark on what has been called the world’s deadliest Mediterranean migrant crossing route in the hopes of a better life in Europe, often on rickety boats which are prone to accidents. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

At least 16 dead, dozens missing after migrant shipwrecks off Tunisia and Western Sahara

Tunisian President Kais Saied sacked Prime Minister&nbsp;Najla&nbsp;Bouden without explanation Tuesday night and replaced her with former central bank executive Ahmed Hachani, whom he tasked with overcoming the "colossal challenges" facing the cash-strapped North African country.

No official explanation was given for Bouden's dismissal, but several local media outlets highlighted Saied's displeasure over a number of shortages, particularly of bread in state-subsidised bakeries.

Saied "terminated the functions" of Bouden, who had been the first woman to head a government in Tunisia, according to a press release and video released by the presidency shortly before midnight.

Saied immediately appointed in her place Hachani, who until now worked at the Tunisian central bank and studied law at the University of Tunis, where Saied taught, according to Hachani's Facebook profile.

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The new head of government, a figure unknown to the general public, was sworn in before the president, according to the presidency video.

At the end of the ceremony, Saied wished him "good luck in this responsibility".

The president stressed that "there are colossal challenges that we must overcome with a solid and strong will, in order to protect our homeland, our state and social peace".

In recent days, several meetings have taken place within the government and between the president and ministers over the problem of shortages of subsidised bread in several regions.

According to media, Saied, who recently said "bread is a red line for Tunisians", fears a repeat of the bread riots that left 150 dead in 1984 under Habib Bourguiba, the father of Tunisian independence.

Faced with a low-wage economy, the Tunisian state has since the 1970s centralised the purchase of a large number of basic ingredients such as flour, semolina, sugar, coffee and cooking oil, before putting them on the market at subsidised prices.

The country has been facing sporadic shortages of these products for months, linked, according to economists, to the requirement that suppliers be paid in advance, which Tunisia has had great difficulty doing.

<h2>&nbsp;Economic woes&nbsp;</h2>

The North African country, which is saddled with a crippling public wage bill from a civil service that employs 680,000 of its 12 million citizens, is struggling with debt of around 80 per cent of GDP and seeking foreign aid.

Tunisia in October reached a tentative deal for a $1.9 billion bailout from the International Monetary Fund that would require Tunis to undertake a "comprehensive economic reform programme" that would phase out subsidies on fuel and electricity.

The IMF has also called for legislation to restructure more than 100 state-owned firms, which hold monopolies over many parts of the economy and in many cases are heavily indebted.

But hopes of securing the IMF bailout appear slim as President Kais Saied has repeatedly rejected "foreign diktats that will lead to more poverty".

Bouden was appointed by Saied on October 11, 2021, two and a half months after the president granted himself sweeping powers on July 25 by dismissing his then-prime minister and suspending parliament. Since his power grab, Saied has ruled by decree.

The constitution, which he had amended by referendum in the summer of 2022, greatly reduced the powers of parliament and granted the president's office unlimited powers.

A new assembly took office in the spring of 2023 following legislative elections at the end of 2022, which were boycotted by the opposition parties and shunned by voters with a turnout rate of around 10 per cent.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-increases-consumption-after-disappointing-post-covid-economic-recovery-data-621078">&nbsp;China increases consumption after disappointing post-Covid economic recovery data</a>

On several occasions in recent months, the president has ordered the dismissal of various ministers, including the foreign minister, without giving a reason.

Since last February, about 20 opposition, media and business figures have been imprisoned in a wave of arrests that included Rached Ghannouchi, leader of the Islamist-inspired Ennahdha party and one of the president's highest-profile critics.

They are accused of "plotting against state security", and Saied has called them "terrorists".

Amnesty International has labelled the roundup a "politically motivated witch hunt".

Ennahdha dominated coalitions in the decade since the 2011 democratic revolution that culminated in the downfall of dictator Zine El Abidine Ben Ali and kicked off the Arab Spring uprisings across the region.

The political crisis Tunisia has been going through for two years is compounded by its serious economic difficulties.

Besides being heavily indebted, growth is a sluggish two per cent while poverty levels are rising and unemployment is very high at 15 per cent.

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Tunisian President Kais Saied sacked Prime Minister Najla Bouden without explanation Tuesday night and replaced her with former central bank executive Ahmed Hachani, whom he tasked with overcoming the "colossal challenges" facing the cash-strapped North African country.

Tunisian President Kais Saied sacked Prime Minister Najla Bouden without explanation Tuesday night and replaced her with former central bank executive Ahmed Hachani, whom he tasked with overcoming the "colossal challenges" facing the cash-strapped North African country. No official explanation was given for Bouden's dismissal, but several local media outlets highlighted Saied's displeasure over a number of shortages, particularly of bread in state-subsidised bakeries. Saied "terminated the functions" of Bouden, who had been the first woman to head a government in Tunisia, according to a press release and video released by the presidency shortly before midnight. Saied immediately appointed in her place Hachani, who until now worked at the Tunisian central bank and studied law at the University of Tunis, where Saied taught, according to Hachani's Facebook profile. Also read | Another political scandal in Singapore: Workers Party leaders quit over inappropriate relationship The new head of government, a figure unknown to the general public, was sworn in before the president, according to the presidency video. At the end of the ceremony, Saied wished him "good luck in this responsibility". The president stressed that "there are colossal challenges that we must overcome with a solid and strong will, in order to protect our homeland, our state and social peace". In recent days, several meetings have taken place within the government and between the president and ministers over the problem of shortages of subsidised bread in several regions. According to media, Saied, who recently said "bread is a red line for Tunisians", fears a repeat of the bread riots that left 150 dead in 1984 under Habib Bourguiba, the father of Tunisian independence. Faced with a low-wage economy, the Tunisian state has since the 1970s centralised the purchase of a large number of basic ingredients such as flour, semolina, sugar, coffee and cooking oil, before putting them on the market at subsidised prices. The country has been facing sporadic shortages of these products for months, linked, according to economists, to the requirement that suppliers be paid in advance, which Tunisia has had great difficulty doing. Economic woes The North African country, which is saddled with a crippling public wage bill from a civil service that employs 680,000 of its 12 million citizens, is struggling with debt of around 80 per cent of GDP and seeking foreign aid. Tunisia in October reached a tentative deal for a $1.9 billion bailout from the International Monetary Fund that would require Tunis to undertake a "comprehensive economic reform programme" that would phase out subsidies on fuel and electricity. The IMF has also called for legislation to restructure more than 100 state-owned firms, which hold monopolies over many parts of the economy and in many cases are heavily indebted. But hopes of securing the IMF bailout appear slim as President Kais Saied has repeatedly rejected "foreign diktats that will lead to more poverty". Bouden was appointed by Saied on October 11, 2021, two and a half months after the president granted himself sweeping powers on July 25 by dismissing his then-prime minister and suspending parliament. Since his power grab, Saied has ruled by decree. The constitution, which he had amended by referendum in the summer of 2022, greatly reduced the powers of parliament and granted the president's office unlimited powers. A new assembly took office in the spring of 2023 following legislative elections at the end of 2022, which were boycotted by the opposition parties and shunned by voters with a turnout rate of around 10 per cent. Also read | China increases consumption after disappointing post-Covid economic recovery data On several occasions in recent months, the president has ordered the dismissal of various ministers, including the foreign minister, without giving a reason. Since last February, about 20 opposition, media and business figures have been imprisoned in a wave of arrests that included Rached Ghannouchi, leader of the Islamist-inspired Ennahdha party and one of the president's highest-profile critics. They are accused of "plotting against state security", and Saied has called them "terrorists". Amnesty International has labelled the roundup a "politically motivated witch hunt". Ennahdha dominated coalitions in the decade since the 2011 democratic revolution that culminated in the downfall of dictator Zine El Abidine Ben Ali and kicked off the Arab Spring uprisings across the region. The political crisis Tunisia has been going through for two years is compounded by its serious economic difficulties. Besides being heavily indebted, growth is a sluggish two per cent while poverty levels are rising and unemployment is very high at 15 per cent. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Tunisia's first female prime minister fired by President Kais Saeid

A battling Tiger Woods clawed his way out of early trouble to stay in the Masters hunt, carding a second round two-over 74 on a Friday as the wind gave him more problems than the right leg that he nearly lost in a career-threatening car crash.

World number one Scottie Scheffler was among the few to tame the challenging conditions, posting a 67 to seize control of the leaderboard and charging five clear of the field on eight-under 136.

With winds blowing across Augusta National, golfers were in full survival mode and none more so than Woods who took bogeys on four of his five opening holes, threatening to derail the comeback that has captivated golf fans around the world.

But the 46-year-old's famous fight surfaced in time to put him one-over heading into Saturday's third round and nine back of front-running Scheffler.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tiger-woods-begins-highly-anticipated-return-with-opening-par-at-masters-469209">Tiger Woods begins highly-anticipated return with opening par at Masters</a>

"I got back in the ball game," said Woods. "I'm four shots back at second. That's the thing."

"But Scottie is running away with it right now."

"Tomorrow is going to be tough. It's going to be windy. It's going to be cool."

"It's going to be the Masters that I think the Masters Committee has been looking forward to for a number of years."

"We haven't had it like this. It's going to be exciting, and it's going to be fun for all of us."

With three wins in his last five PGA Tour starts, Scheffler showed why he is the hottest golfer on the planet taking a bogey on his first hole then going on to post the day's best round.

The 25-year-old American, even with a commanding five shot lead, cannot afford to get complacent being chased by trio of major winners including South Africa's Charl Schwartzel (69) the 2011 winner at Augusta National, Irishman Shane Lowry (68) the 2019 British Open winner, and defending Masters champion Hideki Matsuyama of Japan (69).

ALSO READ:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ive-got-to-play-wimbledon-first-serena-williams-teases-comeback-after-a-year-on-the-sidelines-469199">&nbsp;</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ive-got-to-play-wimbledon-first-serena-williams-teases-comeback-after-a-year-on-the-sidelines-469199">'I've got to play Wimbledon first': Serena Williams teases comeback after a year on the sidelines</a>

Also five back is South Korea's Im Sung-jae (74), the first round overnight leader.

"There's still 50 guys in the field, something like that, I'm sure, and I can't worry about what those guys are doing," said Scheffler. "I'm just going to go out and play my game and just keep doing what I'm doing.

"Still quite a long way to go."

"It's nice to build up a little bit of a lead, but I'm not really going to be thinking about it tonight or anything."

As spectacular a round as Scheffler had it still was not enough to pry the spotlight away from Woods.

Playing his first competitive event in nearly 14 months Woods set the golf world alight on Thursday when he posted a one-under 71 to crank up expectations.

But the 46-year-old looked headed for an early exit when he stumbled to bogeys on four of his five opening holes, including three straight from the third.

Three-over walking onto the sixth tee and sliding dangerously close to the projected four-over cut line, Woods regrouped with nervy pars on six and seven before finally collecting his first birdie of the day at the eighth.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-quashes-rumours-of-changing-length-of-matches-for-world-cup-qatar-2022-469127">FIFA quashes rumours of changing length of matches for World Cup Qatar 2022</a>

The five-times Masters champion got his back nine off to a much brighter start than his outward nine, picking up a birdie at the 10th, then gave it right back at the infamous Amen Corner with bogeys at 11 and 12.

But as he has he has done so many times before on the Augusta back nine Woods would not surrender, hitting back with birdies at 13 and 14 before closing with four consecutive pars.

"Tomorrow is going to be an important day with as cool and as tough as they're predicting," said Woods. "It's going to be quick, and I need to go out there and put myself there.

"If you're within five or six on that back nine going into Sunday, you've got a chance. So I just need to get there."

A battling Tiger Woods clawed his way out of early trouble to stay in the Masters hunt, carding a second round two-over 74 on a Friday as the wind gave him more problems than the right leg that he nearly lost in a career-threatening car crash.

A battling Tiger Woods clawed his way out of early trouble to stay in the Masters hunt, carding a second round two-over 74 on a Friday as the wind gave him more problems than the right leg that he nearly lost in a career-threatening car crash. World number one Scottie Scheffler was among the few to tame the challenging conditions, posting a 67 to seize control of the leaderboard and charging five clear of the field on eight-under 136. With winds blowing across Augusta National, golfers were in full survival mode and none more so than Woods who took bogeys on four of his five opening holes, threatening to derail the comeback that has captivated golf fans around the world. But the 46-year-old's famous fight surfaced in time to put him one-over heading into Saturday's third round and nine back of front-running Scheffler. ALSO READ: Tiger Woods begins highly-anticipated return with opening par at Masters "I got back in the ball game," said Woods. "I'm four shots back at second. That's the thing." "But Scottie is running away with it right now." "Tomorrow is going to be tough. It's going to be windy. It's going to be cool." "It's going to be the Masters that I think the Masters Committee has been looking forward to for a number of years." "We haven't had it like this. It's going to be exciting, and it's going to be fun for all of us." With three wins in his last five PGA Tour starts, Scheffler showed why he is the hottest golfer on the planet taking a bogey on his first hole then going on to post the day's best round. The 25-year-old American, even with a commanding five shot lead, cannot afford to get complacent being chased by trio of major winners including South Africa's Charl Schwartzel (69) the 2011 winner at Augusta National, Irishman Shane Lowry (68) the 2019 British Open winner, and defending Masters champion Hideki Matsuyama of Japan (69). ALSO READ: 'I've got to play Wimbledon first': Serena Williams teases comeback after a year on the sidelines Also five back is South Korea's Im Sung-jae (74), the first round overnight leader. "There's still 50 guys in the field, something like that, I'm sure, and I can't worry about what those guys are doing," said Scheffler. "I'm just going to go out and play my game and just keep doing what I'm doing. "Still quite a long way to go." "It's nice to build up a little bit of a lead, but I'm not really going to be thinking about it tonight or anything." As spectacular a round as Scheffler had it still was not enough to pry the spotlight away from Woods. Playing his first competitive event in nearly 14 months Woods set the golf world alight on Thursday when he posted a one-under 71 to crank up expectations. But the 46-year-old looked headed for an early exit when he stumbled to bogeys on four of his five opening holes, including three straight from the third. Three-over walking onto the sixth tee and sliding dangerously close to the projected four-over cut line, Woods regrouped with nervy pars on six and seven before finally collecting his first birdie of the day at the eighth. ALSO READ: FIFA quashes rumours of changing length of matches for World Cup Qatar 2022 The five-times Masters champion got his back nine off to a much brighter start than his outward nine, picking up a birdie at the 10th, then gave it right back at the infamous Amen Corner with bogeys at 11 and 12. But as he has he has done so many times before on the Augusta back nine Woods would not surrender, hitting back with birdies at 13 and 14 before closing with four consecutive pars. "Tomorrow is going to be an important day with as cool and as tough as they're predicting," said Woods. "It's going to be quick, and I need to go out there and put myself there. "If you're within five or six on that back nine going into Sunday, you've got a chance. So I just need to get there."

Algeria: Over 30 killed, thousands evacuated after wildfires spread across multiple provinces

European Union member Italy&nbsp;is in the midst of hosting an international conference of leaders of several nations in Rome, on Sunday (July 23) as it has sought to extend the EU-backed deal struck with Tunisia to curb migration to Europe and build an alliance to tackle illegal migration. The EU deal with the North African country has left human rights groups and migrant charities fuming.&nbsp;

<h2>Italy’s PM reverses stance on migrants</h2>

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni opened the talks in Rome and said that the meetings with presidents&nbsp;and ministers of various nations will focus on illegal and legal immigration, refugee support and “the most important...wide cooperation to support development in Africa.”&nbsp;

Furthermore, in contrast to her past rhetoric, Meloni also said that the country would be open to taking in more people through legal routes as “Europe and Italy needed immigration.”&nbsp;

She added, “Mass illegal immigration harms each and every one of us. No one benefits from this, except criminal groups who get rich at the expense of the most fragile and use their strength even against the governments”.&nbsp;

The Italian PM called for action to prevent the migrants from taking the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/world-willfully-ignoring-deaths-of-nearly-300-children-this-year-trying-to-cross-mediterranean-un-615785">dangerous Mediterranean Sea route</a> to reach Europe. The conference is also hosting representatives from Tunisia, the United Arab Emirates, Cyprus, Libya and the EU.&nbsp;

UAE has pledged $100 million to support development projects in countries affected by irregular immigration, reported the state news agency WAM, on Sunday. UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan is reportedly in the midst of attending the conference in Rome.&nbsp;

<h2>EU and Tunisia’s ‘strategic partnership’ deal</h2>

Last week,&nbsp;the EU and Tunisia signed a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-to-give-tunisia-over-1-billion-to-combat-trafficking-support-economy-report-615809">“strategic partnership”</a> which will include a crackdown on human traffickers and tighten&nbsp;border security. The 27-nation bloc has pledged $1.1 billion (one billion euros) in aid to support the North African country’s battered economy.&nbsp;

Echoing a similar view&nbsp;as Meloni, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, said, “We want our agreement with Tunisia to be a template. A blueprint for the future. For partnerships with other countries in the region.”&nbsp;

<h2>Pope calls on governments to act</h2>

Addressing the crowd gathered near St. Peter’s Square, earlier on Sunday, Pope Francis called on European and African governments to help migrants fleeing poverty and conflict and ensure that the Mediterranean never again becomes “a theatre of death” for those trying to cross it. &nbsp;

<h2>More countries to join&nbsp;EU-Tunisia like deal?</h2>

A senior European diplomat speaking on condition of anonymity told AFP that the EU has sought similar partnership deals with Egypt and Morocco as the one it recently struck with Tunisia. “We must cooperate with the countries of North Africa, even if to do so we have to accept that they are not perfect democracies,” the Rome-based ambassador told AFP.&nbsp;

<h2>Human rights groups fume over deal</h2>

While the EU chief has called the deal with Tunisia a “blueprint for the future,” human rights groups and migrant charities have called it a “new low” for the 27-nation bloc’s efforts to curb migrants’ arrivals, reported news agency AFP.&nbsp;

In a statement, Human Rights Watch called the deal “a new low in the European Union’s efforts to curb migrants’ arrivals at any cost” that “pays only lip service to human rights.” It added, “It shows that Europe has learned nothing from its complicity in the horrendous abuses of migrants in Libya.”&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
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European Union member Italy is in the midst of hosting an international conference of leaders of several nations in Rome, on Sunday (July 23) as it has sought to extend the EU-backed deal struck with Tunisia to curb migration to Europe and build an alliance to tackle illegal migration.

European Union member Italy is in the midst of hosting an international conference of leaders of several nations in Rome, on Sunday (July 23) as it has sought to extend the EU-backed deal struck with Tunisia to curb migration to Europe and build an alliance to tackle illegal migration. The EU deal with the North African country has left human rights groups and migrant charities fuming. Italy’s PM reverses stance on migrants Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni opened the talks in Rome and said that the meetings with presidents and ministers of various nations will focus on illegal and legal immigration, refugee support and “the most important...wide cooperation to support development in Africa.” Furthermore, in contrast to her past rhetoric, Meloni also said that the country would be open to taking in more people through legal routes as “Europe and Italy needed immigration.” She added, “Mass illegal immigration harms each and every one of us. No one benefits from this, except criminal groups who get rich at the expense of the most fragile and use their strength even against the governments”. The Italian PM called for action to prevent the migrants from taking the dangerous Mediterranean Sea route to reach Europe. The conference is also hosting representatives from Tunisia, the United Arab Emirates, Cyprus, Libya and the EU. UAE has pledged $100 million to support development projects in countries affected by irregular immigration, reported the state news agency WAM, on Sunday. UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan is reportedly in the midst of attending the conference in Rome. EU and Tunisia’s ‘strategic partnership’ deal Last week, the EU and Tunisia signed a “strategic partnership” which will include a crackdown on human traffickers and tighten border security. The 27-nation bloc has pledged $1.1 billion (one billion euros) in aid to support the North African country’s battered economy. Echoing a similar view as Meloni, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, said, “We want our agreement with Tunisia to be a template. A blueprint for the future. For partnerships with other countries in the region.” Pope calls on governments to act Addressing the crowd gathered near St. Peter’s Square, earlier on Sunday, Pope Francis called on European and African governments to help migrants fleeing poverty and conflict and ensure that the Mediterranean never again becomes “a theatre of death” for those trying to cross it. More countries to join EU-Tunisia like deal? A senior European diplomat speaking on condition of anonymity told AFP that the EU has sought similar partnership deals with Egypt and Morocco as the one it recently struck with Tunisia. “We must cooperate with the countries of North Africa, even if to do so we have to accept that they are not perfect democracies,” the Rome-based ambassador told AFP. Human rights groups fume over deal While the EU chief has called the deal with Tunisia a “blueprint for the future,” human rights groups and migrant charities have called it a “new low” for the 27-nation bloc’s efforts to curb migrants’ arrivals, reported news agency AFP. In a statement, Human Rights Watch called the deal “a new low in the European Union’s efforts to curb migrants’ arrivals at any cost” that “pays only lip service to human rights.” It added, “It shows that Europe has learned nothing from its complicity in the horrendous abuses of migrants in Libya.” (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Italy hosts migration conference as PM Meloni, EU hope to extend Tunisia deal to other nations

Artists in Tunisia are creating decorative pieces like lampshades using cocoons of silkworms. What is the best thing? No silkworm is harmed in the process of carving out these masterpieces.

Tunisian artists use silkworm cocoons

The European Union and Tunisia have signed a memorandum of understanding for a “strategic and comprehensive partnership” aimed at combatting irregular migration and boosting economic ties between the bloc and the North African country, which lies on a major route for migrants and refugees traveling to Europe.

Tunisia and EU sign a 'partnership' on economy and migration

A report by the Guardian, on Friday (July 14) said that the European Commission president will return to Tunisia, over the weekend with the prime ministers of Italy and the Netherlands to sign a $1.12 billion (1 billion euro) deal.&nbsp;

<h2>What is the deal about?</h2>

The billion euro package was first announced by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen by the Europe Union for the North African nation.&nbsp;

The British media report citing sources also said that a memorandum of understanding is expected to be signed, on Sunday, with von der Leyen accompanying Italian and Dutch PMs Giorgia Meloni and Mark Rutte to Tunisia.&nbsp;

The so-called “macro-financial assistance” package was announced last month, with $1 billion (900 million euros) directed towards helping Tunisia’s economy.&nbsp;

The rest will be divided into a reform agenda set by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and a partnership with Tunisia to combat people smuggling, human trafficking and the continuing tragedies in the Mediterranean Sea.&nbsp;

This comes weeks after Tunisian President Kais Saied rejected the package and said that Tunis will not be the EU’s “border guard”.&nbsp;

The country has witnessed a spike in racially motivated attacks after Saied <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tunisian-president-calls-for-expulsion-of-migrants-as-wave-of-crackdowns-on-dissents-continues-565946">accused</a> illegal immigrants from sub-Saharan African countries of bringing violence and alleging a “criminal plot” to change the country’s demography.

This has led many to leave Tunisia via the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/world-willfully-ignoring-deaths-of-nearly-300-children-this-year-trying-to-cross-mediterranean-un-615785">dangerous Mediterranean Sea route</a> to reach Europe. Several countries in the EU, particularly Italy, have been looking to reduce the increasing number of migrants fleeing Africa with most of the departures to Rome being from Tunisia.&nbsp;

In the Netherlands, tensions ran high as Rutte, longest serving Dutch PM, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mark-rutte-longest-serving-pm-of-netherlands-calls-it-quits-after-govt-collapse-613875">quit</a>&nbsp;after failing to secure a package of measures to rein in migration.&nbsp;

Additionally, several members of the EU parliament have voiced opposition and concerns about giving Tunisia 1 billion euros over its breakdown of democracy under President Saied and the 27-nation bloc being complicit as it happens.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

<h2>Rights groups urge support for migrants</h2>

On Friday, Tunisian rights groups sounded alarm over the deteriorating situation in the country’s port of Sfax with hundreds of migrants fleeing or being forced out of Tunisia’s second-largest city.&nbsp;

Sfax is a departure point for migrants making their way to Europe but due to the unrest there, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tunisia-mulls-new-cemeteries-as-hundreds-of-dead-refugees-wash-up-on-coast-587777">hundreds</a> were forcibly taken to the desert bordering Libya and Algeria. Around 100 and 150 migrants including women and children are stuck on the border with Libya, said Romdane Ben Amor of the Tunisian Forum for Economic and Social Rights (FTDES), on Friday.&nbsp;

Some 165 migrants were abandoned near the border with Algeria and were later picked up without any specifications of by whom or where they were taken, he added. Amor said that migrants need to be provided with emergency accommodation after the bodies of two migrants were found and fear of finding more, in the upcoming days.&nbsp;

Naila Zoghlami, head of the Tunisian Association of Democratic Women, said Saied’s remarks have given people “green light to do what they liked to migrants,” adding that women from sub-Saharan African countries told her organisation that they had been raped by Tunisians.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

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A report by the Guardian, on Friday (July 14) said that the European Commission president will return to Tunisia, over the weekend with the prime ministers of Italy and the Netherlands to sign a $1.

A report by the Guardian, on Friday (July 14) said that the European Commission president will return to Tunisia, over the weekend with the prime ministers of Italy and the Netherlands to sign a $1.12 billion (1 billion euro) deal. What is the deal about? The billion euro package was first announced by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen by the Europe Union for the North African nation. The British media report citing sources also said that a memorandum of understanding is expected to be signed, on Sunday, with von der Leyen accompanying Italian and Dutch PMs Giorgia Meloni and Mark Rutte to Tunisia. The so-called “macro-financial assistance” package was announced last month, with $1 billion (900 million euros) directed towards helping Tunisia’s economy. The rest will be divided into a reform agenda set by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and a partnership with Tunisia to combat people smuggling, human trafficking and the continuing tragedies in the Mediterranean Sea. This comes weeks after Tunisian President Kais Saied rejected the package and said that Tunis will not be the EU’s “border guard”. The country has witnessed a spike in racially motivated attacks after Saied accused illegal immigrants from sub-Saharan African countries of bringing violence and alleging a “criminal plot” to change the country’s demography. This has led many to leave Tunisia via the dangerous Mediterranean Sea route to reach Europe. Several countries in the EU, particularly Italy, have been looking to reduce the increasing number of migrants fleeing Africa with most of the departures to Rome being from Tunisia. In the Netherlands, tensions ran high as Rutte, longest serving Dutch PM, quit after failing to secure a package of measures to rein in migration. Additionally, several members of the EU parliament have voiced opposition and concerns about giving Tunisia 1 billion euros over its breakdown of democracy under President Saied and the 27-nation bloc being complicit as it happens. Rights groups urge support for migrants On Friday, Tunisian rights groups sounded alarm over the deteriorating situation in the country’s port of Sfax with hundreds of migrants fleeing or being forced out of Tunisia’s second-largest city. Sfax is a departure point for migrants making their way to Europe but due to the unrest there, hundreds were forcibly taken to the desert bordering Libya and Algeria. Around 100 and 150 migrants including women and children are stuck on the border with Libya, said Romdane Ben Amor of the Tunisian Forum for Economic and Social Rights (FTDES), on Friday. Some 165 migrants were abandoned near the border with Algeria and were later picked up without any specifications of by whom or where they were taken, he added. Amor said that migrants need to be provided with emergency accommodation after the bodies of two migrants were found and fear of finding more, in the upcoming days. Naila Zoghlami, head of the Tunisian Association of Democratic Women, said Saied’s remarks have given people “green light to do what they liked to migrants,” adding that women from sub-Saharan African countries told her organisation that they had been raped by Tunisians. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

EU to give Tunisia over $1 billion to combat trafficking, support economy: Report

Tunisia's coastal city of Sfax is reeling under racial violence, with migrants from sub-Saharan Africa a key target. When will the intense hardship for the migrants end?

Racial tensions in Tunisia

Youths in Tunisia protests over killing of local resident by migrants 

Youths in Tunisia called for vengeance on Tuesday at the funeral of a man who was stabbed to death during a scuffle between residents and migrants from sub-Saharan Africa.

Three African migrants were arrested as suspects for the death of the local man in Tunisia's coastal city of Sfax, a court spokesman said.

The North African country's second-largest city is a departure point for many migrants hoping to reach Italy, and tensions have been rising in Sfax for months.

Police had fired tear gas on Sunday to disperse residents and migrants pelting stones at each other.

Faouzi Masmoudi, the spokesman for the Sfax prosecutor, said the victim, who was in his early 40s, was fatally stabbed late Monday during a scuffle between Sfax residents and migrants.

He said three suspects&nbsp;from Cameroon, according to initial information, had been arrested.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tunisian-police-arrest-prominent-political-activists-and-influential-businessman-561237">Tunisian police arrest prominent political activists and influential businessman</a>

Locals in Sfax regularly protest against the presence of the migrants and call for them to leave.

News of the man's death spread quickly after Tarek Mahdi, a member of parliament for Sfax, posted a video on social media showing a body lying in the street and a trail of blood.

Reactions to the post, some with racist overtones, included calls for African migrants to be expelled from Sfax.&nbsp; 
 
Clashes between migrants and residents were reported in several districts of the city on Tuesday.

<h2>Police presence increased to boost security</h2>

The interior ministry said the police and security presence in Sfax was bolstered after Monday's killing.

Racial tensions in Tunisia have led to deadly violence earlier also. In late May, police arrested three citizens on suspicion of stabbing to death a migrant from Benin.

Tunisia has seen a rise in racially motivated attacks on migrants and foreign students following President Kais Saied's comments in February accusing "hordes" of illegal migrants of bringing violence, crime and "unacceptable practices".&nbsp;

He also spoke of a "criminal plot" to change the country's demography.

On Tuesday, Saied visited the interior ministry in the capital.

In a&nbsp;statement, the&nbsp;president&nbsp;reiterated that Tunisia "does not accept that anyone who does not respect its laws stays on its territory, or uses it as a transit country or to resettle nationals of certain African countries".

With a population of 12 million, Tunisia hosts an estimated 21,000 migrants from other parts of Africa, representing 0.2 per cent of the population.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/around-40-migrants-missing-after-boat-capsizes-off-italian-island-of-lampedusa-608029">Around 40 migrants missing after boat capsizes between Italy and Tunisia</a>

While some migrants come to Tunisia to study, many use the country as a springboard for attempts to reach Europe by sea, usually to the Italian island of Lampedusa about 130 kilometres away. 
 
Tunisians themselves have joined the exodus in a bid to flee the economic crisis in their country, which is highly indebted and in talks for a bailout loan from the International Monetary Fund.

Europe has offered funding to help assist Tunisia's efforts against illegal migration and boost the economy.&nbsp;

Saied has repeatedly rejected what he terms the "diktats" of the Washington-based IMF.

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Youths in Tunisia called for vengeance on Tuesday at the funeral of a man who was stabbed to death during a scuffle between residents and migrants from sub-Saharan Africa.

Youths in Tunisia called for vengeance on Tuesday at the funeral of a man who was stabbed to death during a scuffle between residents and migrants from sub-Saharan Africa. Three African migrants were arrested as suspects for the death of the local man in Tunisia's coastal city of Sfax, a court spokesman said. The North African country's second-largest city is a departure point for many migrants hoping to reach Italy, and tensions have been rising in Sfax for months. Police had fired tear gas on Sunday to disperse residents and migrants pelting stones at each other. Faouzi Masmoudi, the spokesman for the Sfax prosecutor, said the victim, who was in his early 40s, was fatally stabbed late Monday during a scuffle between Sfax residents and migrants. He said three suspects from Cameroon, according to initial information, had been arrested. Also read | Tunisian police arrest prominent political activists and influential businessman Locals in Sfax regularly protest against the presence of the migrants and call for them to leave. News of the man's death spread quickly after Tarek Mahdi, a member of parliament for Sfax, posted a video on social media showing a body lying in the street and a trail of blood. Reactions to the post, some with racist overtones, included calls for African migrants to be expelled from Sfax. Clashes between migrants and residents were reported in several districts of the city on Tuesday. Police presence increased to boost security The interior ministry said the police and security presence in Sfax was bolstered after Monday's killing. Racial tensions in Tunisia have led to deadly violence earlier also. In late May, police arrested three citizens on suspicion of stabbing to death a migrant from Benin. Tunisia has seen a rise in racially motivated attacks on migrants and foreign students following President Kais Saied's comments in February accusing "hordes" of illegal migrants of bringing violence, crime and "unacceptable practices". He also spoke of a "criminal plot" to change the country's demography. On Tuesday, Saied visited the interior ministry in the capital. In a statement, the president reiterated that Tunisia "does not accept that anyone who does not respect its laws stays on its territory, or uses it as a transit country or to resettle nationals of certain African countries". With a population of 12 million, Tunisia hosts an estimated 21,000 migrants from other parts of Africa, representing 0.2 per cent of the population. Also read | Around 40 migrants missing after boat capsizes between Italy and Tunisia While some migrants come to Tunisia to study, many use the country as a springboard for attempts to reach Europe by sea, usually to the Italian island of Lampedusa about 130 kilometres away. Tunisians themselves have joined the exodus in a bid to flee the economic crisis in their country, which is highly indebted and in talks for a bailout loan from the International Monetary Fund. Europe has offered funding to help assist Tunisia's efforts against illegal migration and boost the economy. Saied has repeatedly rejected what he terms the "diktats" of the Washington-based IMF. WATCH WION LIVE:

Tunisians stabbed to death in clash with African migrants, three arrested

Tunisia hopeful of economy revival as tourists make their way to the country

Tunisia is fighting a two-pronged battle as it fights rising inflation on one hand and an influx of migrants on the other hand.

Tunisia's double whammy: Migrants and inflation on the rise

A man in Tunisia has defied age and is living a healthy life at 119 years old.

Tunisia's 119 years young man

As the summer harvest season begins in agriculture-dependent North Africa, experts predict that the severe drought in the region points to the coming crop failures in Tunisia.

As drought withers Tunisian fields feel financial pinch

Tunisia and Egypt are inching closer to a severe debt crisis that could have far-reaching implications for the volatile North Africa region.

As shortages of essential goods and financial market dysfunction plague the two countries, their wealthy West Asian neighbors, investors, and analysts are growing increasingly concerned, Reuters reported.

Egypt has historically been considered "too big to fail" due to its status as the largest economy and most populous nation in North Africa. But Tunisia's role as the birthplace of the Arab Spring complicates the economic current scenario in the region.

President Kais Saied's consolidation of power and crackdown on opponents in Tunisia have ignited a political crisis. Hopes for an International Monetary Fund (IMF) support package remain uncertain. This is largely due to concerns over&nbsp;the country's ability&nbsp;to implement the program amidst its fractured politics.

President Saied's anti-IMF statements do not help Tunisia's case either. He has openly criticized the IMF, asserting that Tunisia will not bow to its "diktats"&nbsp;on subsidy cuts and reductions in the public wage bill. He has also warned&nbsp;that such measures could trigger renewed social upheaval. The country is now at risk of a full-blown balance of payments crisis, with a fiscal deficit estimated to remain around 5 percent of GDP and dwindling foreign exchange reserves.

On the other hand, Egypt grapples with stretched finances despite securing a $3 billion IMF rescue plan in December. Its debt-to-GDP ratio is rapidly approaching 100 percent, and multiple currency devaluations have inflated interest payments on its debt. With over half of the government's revenues projected to be consumed by debt interest payments next year, the situation is becoming increasingly precarious.

A scarcity of dollars in Cairo's local currency markets is further exacerbating the economic challenges faced by the country. The Egyptian pound continues to weaken against the dollar on the streets, trading at over 40 pounds to the dollar, nearly 25 percent below the official exchange rate. Economists predict that interest rates will need to rise even further, setting the stage for a tumultuous economic narrative ahead of next year's presidential elections.

The potential debt default by Tunisia and Egypt carries significant implications for global money managers and regional stability.

Egypt's international bonds have already experienced a 20 percent slump this year, causing concern among asset managers. Reuters quoted veteran Fund Manager Carl Ross as saying that a&nbsp;default by Egypt, a country with a 110 million population, could create ripples of instability throughout the region. While the wealthy Gulf states have traditionally supported financial stability in the region, uncertainties remain about the duration and conditions under which this support will persist.

(With agency inputs)&nbsp;

Tunisia and Egypt are inching closer to a severe debt crisis that could have far-reaching implications for the volatile North Africa region. As shortages of essential goods and financial market dysfunction plague the two countries, their wealthy West Asian neighbors, investors, and analysts are growing increasingly concerned, Reuters reported.

Tunisia and Egypt are inching closer to a severe debt crisis that could have far-reaching implications for the volatile North Africa region. As shortages of essential goods and financial market dysfunction plague the two countries, their wealthy West Asian neighbors, investors, and analysts are growing increasingly concerned, Reuters reported. Egypt has historically been considered "too big to fail" due to its status as the largest economy and most populous nation in North Africa. But Tunisia's role as the birthplace of the Arab Spring complicates the economic current scenario in the region. President Kais Saied's consolidation of power and crackdown on opponents in Tunisia have ignited a political crisis. Hopes for an International Monetary Fund (IMF) support package remain uncertain. This is largely due to concerns over the country's ability to implement the program amidst its fractured politics. President Saied's anti-IMF statements do not help Tunisia's case either. He has openly criticized the IMF, asserting that Tunisia will not bow to its "diktats" on subsidy cuts and reductions in the public wage bill. He has also warned that such measures could trigger renewed social upheaval. The country is now at risk of a full-blown balance of payments crisis, with a fiscal deficit estimated to remain around 5 percent of GDP and dwindling foreign exchange reserves. On the other hand, Egypt grapples with stretched finances despite securing a $3 billion IMF rescue plan in December. Its debt-to-GDP ratio is rapidly approaching 100 percent, and multiple currency devaluations have inflated interest payments on its debt. With over half of the government's revenues projected to be consumed by debt interest payments next year, the situation is becoming increasingly precarious. A scarcity of dollars in Cairo's local currency markets is further exacerbating the economic challenges faced by the country. The Egyptian pound continues to weaken against the dollar on the streets, trading at over 40 pounds to the dollar, nearly 25 percent below the official exchange rate. Economists predict that interest rates will need to rise even further, setting the stage for a tumultuous economic narrative ahead of next year's presidential elections. The potential debt default by Tunisia and Egypt carries significant implications for global money managers and regional stability. Egypt's international bonds have already experienced a 20 percent slump this year, causing concern among asset managers. Reuters quoted veteran Fund Manager Carl Ross as saying that a default by Egypt, a country with a 110 million population, could create ripples of instability throughout the region. While the wealthy Gulf states have traditionally supported financial stability in the region, uncertainties remain about the duration and conditions under which this support will persist. (With agency inputs)

Drowning in debt: Tunisia and Egypt's battle for economic stability

Tunisia and Egypt are on the brink of major debt crises, with Tunisia facing a political crisis and uncertainty over IMF support. Egypt's debt-to-GDP ratio is reaching critical levels, compounded by currency devaluations and dwindling reserves. The countries' fiscal strains could have far-reaching consequences for the region. The involvement of gulf allies and the potential impact on global financial markets further intensify the gravity of the situation.

Drowning in debt: North Africa braces for impact

At least five people were killed after residents from&nbsp;Tunisia's island of Djerba said they heard an exchange of shots near the&nbsp;El Ghriba synagogue also known as&nbsp;Djerba Synagogue, where a&nbsp;Jewish pilgrimage is taking place, on Tuesday (May 9), said the&nbsp;Tunisian&nbsp;Interior Ministry.&nbsp; 
 
The&nbsp;attacker had killed two policemen and two visitors while reportedly&nbsp;trying to reach a synagogue on the island of Djerba.&nbsp;The assailant was killed by security forces, said the interior ministry.&nbsp;A report by The Jerusalem Post citing sources also claimed that hundreds of Jewish worshippers&nbsp;are in lockdown. 
 
The Tunisian foreign ministry&nbsp;later identified&nbsp;one of the visitors killed as a French citizen and the other as a&nbsp;Tunisian. The attack also left&nbsp;five security officers and four visitors injured.&nbsp;

A&nbsp;community member named Aitan told The&nbsp;Jerusalem Post&nbsp;said that "there is great panic here. We are in lockdown in the synagogue and also in the guesthouse near the synagogue."&nbsp; 
 
According to the Tunisian interior ministry,&nbsp;a guard at the naval centre of the National Guard in Djerba killed a colleague of his and then headed for the El Ghriba synagogue, reported The Jerusalem Post.&nbsp; 
 
The ministry added&nbsp;that the guard in question&nbsp;began firing indiscriminately at security guards at the synagogue who confronted him and killed him.&nbsp;The Tunisian Interior Ministry confirmed that the synagogue is cordoned off and secured. An investigation into the incident to find out the killer's motives was also launched, said the officials. 
 
Notably, the&nbsp;annual pilgrimage&nbsp;to Africa's oldest synagogue regularly draws hundreds of Jews from Europe and Israel to the island of Djerba&nbsp;which is around 500 kilometres away from the capital city of Tunis.&nbsp; 
 
The pilgrimage has had tight security since al-Qaeda militants attacked the synagogue in 2002 with a truck bomb&nbsp;and killed around 21 Western visitors. The predominantly Muslim country, Tunisia, is also home to&nbsp;one of North Africa's largest Jewish communities as&nbsp;Jews have reportedly&nbsp;lived in Tunisia since Roman times.&nbsp; 
 
(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

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At least five people were killed after residents from Tunisia's island of Djerba said they heard an exchange of shots near the El Ghriba synagogue also known as Djerba Synagogue, where a Jewish pilgrimage is taking place, on Tuesday (May 9), said the Tunisian Interior Ministry.

At least five people were killed after residents from Tunisia's island of Djerba said they heard an exchange of shots near the El Ghriba synagogue also known as Djerba Synagogue, where a Jewish pilgrimage is taking place, on Tuesday (May 9), said the Tunisian Interior Ministry. The attacker had killed two policemen and two visitors while reportedly trying to reach a synagogue on the island of Djerba. The assailant was killed by security forces, said the interior ministry. A report by The Jerusalem Post citing sources also claimed that hundreds of Jewish worshippers are in lockdown. The Tunisian foreign ministry later identified one of the visitors killed as a French citizen and the other as a Tunisian. The attack also left five security officers and four visitors injured. A community member named Aitan told The Jerusalem Post said that "there is great panic here. We are in lockdown in the synagogue and also in the guesthouse near the synagogue." According to the Tunisian interior ministry, a guard at the naval centre of the National Guard in Djerba killed a colleague of his and then headed for the El Ghriba synagogue, reported The Jerusalem Post. The ministry added that the guard in question began firing indiscriminately at security guards at the synagogue who confronted him and killed him. The Tunisian Interior Ministry confirmed that the synagogue is cordoned off and secured. An investigation into the incident to find out the killer's motives was also launched, said the officials. Notably, the annual pilgrimage to Africa's oldest synagogue regularly draws hundreds of Jews from Europe and Israel to the island of Djerba which is around 500 kilometres away from the capital city of Tunis. The pilgrimage has had tight security since al-Qaeda militants attacked the synagogue in 2002 with a truck bomb and killed around 21 Western visitors. The predominantly Muslim country, Tunisia, is also home to one of North Africa's largest Jewish communities as Jews have reportedly lived in Tunisia since Roman times. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

At least five killed, several injured in shooting near ancient synagogue in Tunisia

Tunisia struggles to cope with rising migrant death toll at its coastline.

Tunisia's corpse pile-up

Bodies of around 210 migrants have been recovered by the Tunisian Coast Guard in little less than two weeks. The bodies washed up on the country's central coastline, with the authorities saying they were migrants from sub-Saharan Africa and had been attempting to enter Europe.

Bodies of around 210 migrants have been recovered by the Tunisian Coast Guard in little less than two weeks. The bodies washed up on the country's central coastline, with the authorities saying they were migrants from sub-Saharan Africa and had been attempting to enter Europe. According to Faouzi Masmoudi, a prosecutor who oversees migration issues, 70 bodies were recovered from eastern Sfax, the neighbouring Kerkennah islands and Mahdia. The three areas are the commencement point of most attempts to migrate to the Italian coast. The sudden appearance of bodies has overwhelmed the capabilities of the hospitals. The Habib Bourguiba Hospital morgue in Sfax can only handle 30 to 40 bodies at a time. To ease the pressure, local authorities are burying the victims speedily after carrying out DNA tests and possible identification by relatives. ALSO WATCH | Italy Boat Tragedy: 63 bodies found, 36 still missing × Tunisia becomes the hotspot for migration Recent months have seen a great influx of migrants using Tunisia as the main departure point to enter Europe. Earlier most migrants attempting to leave the conflict-ridden zones of Africa and the Middle East took the Libya route to enter the continent. Notably, Tunisia's coast lies just 150 kilometres (90 miles) from the Italian island of Lampedusa which makes it a lucrative option for the migrants to take the additional risk. Over 14,000 migrants have been either intercepted or rescued in the first three months of the year by Tunisian law enforcement agencies, trying to enter Europe. The number is five times the figures recorded during the same period last year. “Coast guard patrols prevent 501 clandestine attempts to cross the maritime border and rescued 14,406 [refugees] including 13,138 from sub-Saharan African countries,” informed the government. According to the International Organization for Migration, migration to Europe reached a peak in 2022 with 189,620 making the journey toward the continent. It was the most since over one million Syrians fled their homeland in 2015. ALSO READ | At least 20 migrants missing after boat drowns off Tunisian coast, 17 rescued Tunisia President Kais Saied in February ordered officials to take "urgent measures" to tackle irregular migration, claiming that "a criminal plot" was underway to change Tunisia's demography. Foreign Minister Nabil Ammar has pleaded with the international community that his country needs more funding and equipment to better protect the borders. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Over 210 migrant bodies recovered on Tunisian coast in less than two weeks

Tunisia is in its 5th consecutive year of drought and water in reservoirs is at alarmingly low levels. The lack of regular rainfall has left people reeling. Since not one Tunisia's 30 dams are even one-third full, according to figures from the ministry of agriculture and water resources.

Tunisia reels under five drought-hit years, curbs imposed on water supply

Syria will reopen its embassy in Tunisia as Syria's top diplomat visited Saudi Arabia seeking to restore ties that have been severed for over 10 years, Associated Press has reported. A joint statement from the foreign ministries of the two countries said that Tunisian President Kais&nbsp;Saied's move to appoint a new ambassador to Syria was reciprocated by the Syrian government.&nbsp;

"In response to the initiative of the President of the Tunisian Republic... the Syrian government... decided to reopen the Syrian embassy in Tunisia, and to appoint an ambassador soon," the statement read.&nbsp;

Tunisia expelled Syria's ambassador in 2012 over the government's repression of peaceful protesters that triggered over a decade of civil war which killed around half a million people and displaced millions more since 2011.

In March, Tunisian President Saied said that he planned to restore diplomatic relations with Syria. This was the latest example of Arab outreach to the internationally isolated government in Damascus that has gathered pace since Syria and Turkey were hit by a massive earthquake in February.

Since the quake, Syrian President Bashar al-Assad has received calls and aid from Arab leaders. President Assad has visited the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and Oman.

And last month, Saudi Arabia said it has started talks with Damascus about resuming consular services.

On Wednesday, A delegation headed by Syria's Foreign Minister Faisal Mikdad arrived in Saudi Arabia for talks about bilateral relations between the two countries. This was the first such visit since 2012.&nbsp;

Saudi state media reported that Mikdad was received by the kingdom’s Deputy Foreign Minister Waleed Al-Khuraiji. The meeting focused on “efforts to reach a political solution to the Syrian crisis that preserves Syria’s unity, security and stability, facilitates the return of Syrian refugees to their homeland and secures the delivery of humanitarian assistance to affected areas in Syria.”

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Syria will reopen its embassy in Tunisia as Syria's top diplomat visited Saudi Arabia seeking to restore ties that have been severed for over 10 years, Associated Press has reported.

Syria will reopen its embassy in Tunisia as Syria's top diplomat visited Saudi Arabia seeking to restore ties that have been severed for over 10 years, Associated Press has reported. A joint statement from the foreign ministries of the two countries said that Tunisian President Kais Saied's move to appoint a new ambassador to Syria was reciprocated by the Syrian government. "In response to the initiative of the President of the Tunisian Republic... the Syrian government... decided to reopen the Syrian embassy in Tunisia, and to appoint an ambassador soon," the statement read. Tunisia expelled Syria's ambassador in 2012 over the government's repression of peaceful protesters that triggered over a decade of civil war which killed around half a million people and displaced millions more since 2011. In March, Tunisian President Saied said that he planned to restore diplomatic relations with Syria. This was the latest example of Arab outreach to the internationally isolated government in Damascus that has gathered pace since Syria and Turkey were hit by a massive earthquake in February. Since the quake, Syrian President Bashar al-Assad has received calls and aid from Arab leaders. President Assad has visited the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and Oman. And last month, Saudi Arabia said it has started talks with Damascus about resuming consular services. On Wednesday, A delegation headed by Syria's Foreign Minister Faisal Mikdad arrived in Saudi Arabia for talks about bilateral relations between the two countries. This was the first such visit since 2012. Saudi state media reported that Mikdad was received by the kingdom’s Deputy Foreign Minister Waleed Al-Khuraiji. The meeting focused on “efforts to reach a political solution to the Syrian crisis that preserves Syria’s unity, security and stability, facilitates the return of Syrian refugees to their homeland and secures the delivery of humanitarian assistance to affected areas in Syria.” WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Syria and Tunisia to restore diplomatic ties after over a decade: Report

Over 300 protesters took to the streets in Tunisia's capital. They demanded the release of about 20 opponents of President Kais Saied, who are under arrest since February. The protests were reportedly organised by the national salvation front, the main opposition coalition in the country.

Opposition party in Tunisia protests against President Saied

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