Amidst the chaos and grief of last week's terrorist massacre at a beach hotel, Tunisian President Beji Caid Essebsi declared a 30-day state of emergency in the country on Saturday. The president further emphasized that such measures have to be taken, as another terrorist attack may "cause the country to collapse."
The state of emergency gives the government heightened executive powers and grants greater authority to the armed forces, which is aimed at curtailing any possible terrorist threat in the country. Apart from these, the freedom of assembly has also been limited, affecting the rights of the common man as well, reports The Los Angeles Times.
The declaration was announced by President Beji Caid Essebsi via television. In his speech, the President mentioned ISIS by name and declared that Tunisia is currently embroiled in a war against extremism.
"Tunisia faces a very serious danger and it should take any possible measures to maintain security and safety," he said, according to CNN.
"Terrorism is spreading. I believe, and I say this plainly and clearly. If this were to happen, which happened in Sousse. If this were to happen again, the country would collapse," he added.
The terror group ISIS has claimed responsibility for the brutal attack. However, the official word on the extremist group's claims have yet to be verified. President Essebsi however, believes that the country can fight back.
"Now, we are on a state of war," he said adding "We have to confront this with what is necessary to fight a war. Undoubtedly, in a way, the armed forces have a role, and they have to be on a state of alert. The National Guard, the police. But this war is special."
