As of 1530, 20 October 2023:

Situation:

• After numerous deaths at a Gaza hospital during the night of 17/18 October, there were large-scale demonstrations across Tunisia and throughout the region.
• Over the same evening, a synagogue in Gabes was damaged by protestors.
• Demonstrators have burned both US and French flags, calling for the expulsion of the two countries’ ambassadors.

In Tunisia…

• Currently, demonstrators are gathered in downtown Tunis by the French Embassy, following Friday prayers.
• A small group of demonstrators have gathered at the US Embassy in Lac II.
• The UGTT, Tunisia’s main public sector union, has announced a demonstration for tomorrow, Saturday, 21 October 2023 at 12:00 PM along Avenue Muhammad V and Avenue Habib Bourghiba.
• The US Department of State issued a global alert for “Worldwide Caution” citing “increased tensions” and the “potential for terrorist attacks, demonstrations, or violent actions against U.S. citizens and interests.”
• The US Embassy in Tunis announced that the movements of diplomatic personnel are temporarily restricted.

Impact:

• Demonstrations ongoing and planned for the next 24 hours will likely cause significant disruptions to vehicle and foot traffic.
• An increased security presence is highly likely in downtown Tunis and in Lac II near the US Embassy.
• Demonstrations that continue after dark can become a highly dynamic security risk.

Recommendations:

• Limit movements around the city, particularly after dark.
• Avoid non-essential travel to the downtown Tunis area along Avenue Muhammad V and Avenue Habib Bourghiba as well as to Lac II near the US Embassy.
• Avoid large crowds.
• Follow the instructions of police and security forces.
• Confirm communication and shelter-in-place plans (if your organization does not have updated shelter-in-place plans, contact one of our partners: Adrienne@DispatchRisk.com).
• Maintain situational awareness, including monitoring reliable information sources for updates.

Additional questions or concerns. Contact our team.