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Tunisia state of emergency extended throughout the summer

A state of emergency in Tunisia was yesterday extended for a further four months – effectively wiping out the summer holiday season.

It was imposed after a suicide attack on a police bus in November 2015.

This followed the beach terrorist attack in Sousse which killed 30 British holidaymakers two years ago this month.

The state of emergency in the north Africa country has been extended a number of times.

Confirming the extension, the Foreign and Commonwealth Office said: “Since the terrorist attack in Sousse in June 2015 which targeted tourists, the UK government has been working closely with the Tunisian authorities to investigate the attack and the wider threat from terrorist groups in Tunisia.

“The Tunisian government has put in place additional security measures, but the intelligence and threat picture has developed considerably, including in neighbouring Libya.”

The FCO travel advice added: “Terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in Tunisia.

“Security forces remain on a high state of alert in Tunis and other places.

“You should be vigilant at all times, including around religious sites and festivals.

“Follow the advice of the Tunisian security authorities and your travel company, if you have one.”

The only direct flights from the UK to the country are by Tunis Air six days a week between London and Tunis.

The FCO advises against all travel to border areas between Tunisia and neighbouring Algeria and Libya and all but essential travel to the rest of the country.

The FCO said: “If you choose to travel to or remain in Tunisia then you should check that your insurance policy provides adequate cover.”

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