The impact of rising counterterrorism.
Tunisian President Beji Caid Essebsi on July 31 extended a state of emergency for another two months of as part of a widespread effort to fight extremist violence in the country. Coupled with a new counterterrorism law passed by parliament on July 24 that expands security forces powers, these measures raise fears of a broader government crackdown on dissent. Growing violence has fuelled international and domestic pressure on the government to confront extremism more effectively.
The new counterterrorism law could be used to undermine legitimate political opposition.
Tunis will use the current threat environment to request additional Western security aid.
The closing of mosques accused of spreading radical messages will drive some Salafists underground and further radicalise others.
Attacks against security forces and Western targets, including tourists, will continue.
