In the wake of a vicious attack that left 21 people, including 17 European tourists, dead at a major museum in Tunisia, a country that has been a bastion of democratic progress in the region, we have to ask — is it safe for tourists to travel in North Africa?
Security forces raided the famous National Bardo Museum in Tunis on Wednesday shortly after an initial attack by men with assault rifles, in the hopes of rescuing remaining hostages. Hundreds of tourists fled the area with several gunmen believed to still be at large. The Tunisian Prime Minister announced that the tourists killed were from Poland, Italy, Britain, Germany, and Spain.
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During the attack, two cruise ships were in port, including the Costa Fascinosa and the MSC Splendida. Some of the passengers from the Costa Fascinosa were in the museum at the time of the attack, though it is not clear yet whether any passengers were killed. “Further to this morning attack in Tunis, Costa Crociere confirms that some of its guests had booked a shore excursion in the city. Upon being notified the Ship’s Command have immediately recalled all excursions to return on board,” the line said in a statement. “The departure of the ship from Tunis which is scheduled for tonight at 8pm will most probably be delayed. Costa HQ management and Care Team are traveling to Tunis to reach the ship tonight in order to liaise with the local authorities and passengers on board. Extra security measures are taken by local security authorities around the port to ensure the security of ship, its passengers and the crew.”
Tunisia, just 96 miles from the southern tip of Italy, has long been a popular tourist destination for Europeans and just last year it was described as “a beacon of hope” in one of the world’s most troubled regions. But following the attacks, the U.S. Embassy and the British Consulate in Tunis have both issued travel warnings for the country, specifically to various border regions. They have also warned people to stay clear of the area directly surrounding the museum, which includes the country’s parliament buildings.