Summary:

On 22 January 2026, the Tunisian Ministry of Interior announced that security forces dismantled a four-member terrorist cell operating near the Algerian border, in Majel Bel Abbès in Kasserine, following persistent surveillance over the preceding days.  

The Ministry emphasized that nationwide security operations remain ongoing to prevent any threats to Tunisia’s safety and stability and reiterated its commitment to protecting the nation against terrorism. 

This most recent operation follows a counter terrorism operation on 3 January in Kasserine governorate, during which Tunisian security forces eliminated a dangerous ISIS-affiliated extremist identified as Seddik El Abidi and arrested one of his accomplices. 

Outlook: 

The reemergence of terrorist cells in Tunisia underscores that the security situation in the country and beyond remains dynamic amidst ongoing political and social turbulence. This occurs within a broader regional context, where countries such as Algeria, Mali, and Niger are intensifying efforts to dismantle ISIS-affiliated groups, including JNIM even as various foreign actors continue to arm and support various militant groups in the region. 

Tunisian security forces demonstrated the intensity of the effort necessary to deter and disrupt terrorist operations within Tunisia. However, risks remain given the dangers from lone wolf attacks. 

Recent developments in Syria, including the detention and transfer of ISIS fighters to Iraq under US supervision, raise the risk of the return of committed ISIS members to Tunisia, which could exacerbate security pressures and create complex political and social challenges for the government. 

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