The U.S. Department of State has warned U.S. citizens about the current political and social unrest in Tunisia and made the recommendation for citizens to defer non-essential travel to Tunisia at this time. A state of emergency was declared in Tunisia on January 14.
The Department of State says it has authorized the departure of all family members. U.S. citizens in Tunisia should closely examine their security situation in light of this and other recent developments and consider departing Tunisia. This Travel Warning supersedes the Travel Alert for Tunisia dated January 13, 2011, according to the department.
“The civil unrest has recently spread to Tunis and all major cities, including popular tourist destinations. These spontaneous and unpredictable events have degenerated on several occasions into violent clashes between police and protesters, resulting in multiple deaths, injuries, and extensive property damage," the department said. "While these disturbances appear to be triggered by economic concerns, and not to be directed toward Westerners, U.S. citizens are urged to remain alert to local security developments and to be vigilant regarding their personal security.”
Updated information on travel and security in Tunisia can be obtained from the Department of State by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States and Canada or, for callers outside the United States and Canada, a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444.
Visit http://travel.state.gov.