Tunisia Roundup: Hajj deaths, ministerial sacks, sports

53 pilgrims die during Hajj

53 Tunisian pilgrims have died in Saudi Arabia during Hajj 2024, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA). the ministry said the Tunisian Consulate General in Jeddah continues to closely monitor the situation of Tunisian pilgrims in coordination with the Tunisian Embassy in Riyadh, the Tunisian Medical Mission, and the Société des services nationaux et des residences.

Deceased Hajj pilgrims found

A group of missing Tunisian pilgrims have been found. The Consulate General of Tunisia in Jeddah managed, in collaboration with the Tunisian Embassy in Riyadh, the Tunisian medical delegation and the Company of National Services and Stays, to find missing Tunisian pilgrims.

Religious Affairs minister sacked

Tunisian president sacked the Religious Affairs Minister after the death of at least 49 Tunisian pilgrims during the Hajj in Saudi Arabia. The presidency did not provide a reason for the minister's firing, but it coincided with the pilgrims' deaths. A.A.com reports that The minister was criticized for posting photos of himself performing the Hajj while the deaths were reported.

Border reopening

Libya has postponed the reopening of the Ras Jedir border crossing with Tunisia, impacting trade between the two countries. The closure is due to tensions between Amazigh tribes and the Libyan government. The closure will have serious economic effects on both countries. Relations between Libya and Tunisia are strained, with unresolved issues dating back to 2011. According to The New Arab, the closure has also led to protests by Amazigh tribes against Tripoli's treatment of their community.

Handball

The Tunisian handball team defeated Iran 26-23 at the 2024 President's Cup in North Macedonia. Fatemeh Merikh was named Player of the Match, Mehr News Agency reports.