Tunisia: Interior Ministry Seizes Turkish Weapons Smuggled from Libya

Image showing the 35 assault rifles seized during the operation (Tunis Afrique Presse (TAP)
Image showing the 35 assault rifles seized during the operation (Tunis Afrique Presse (TAP)
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Tunisia: Interior Ministry Seizes Turkish Weapons Smuggled from Libya

Image showing the 35 assault rifles seized during the operation (Tunis Afrique Presse (TAP)
Image showing the 35 assault rifles seized during the operation (Tunis Afrique Presse (TAP)

Tunisian authorities have seized Turkish-made weapons smuggled from Turkey to Libya, which were bound for Feriana, Kasserine, a region infiltrated by terrorist groups affiliated with ISIS and al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM), announced Interior Ministry spokesperson Khaled Hayouni on Wednesday.

The security units seized the weapons from a vehicle in Beni Khedache, Medenine Governorate, in an ambush.

A source indicated that five people were arrested. However, Hayouni preferred not to disclose the nationalities of the smugglers to preserve the confidentiality of the case.

Hayouni stressed that the weapons seized were not buried under the dirt, as some media outlets promoted. He also announced that five people were arrested in connection with the seized arms, according to Tunis Afrique Presse (TAP).

Caretaker PM Youssef Chahed visited the Directorate of the Investigating Police at El-Gorjani announcing that the seized weapons were meant to be used for terror attacks on sensitive sites in Tunisia.

In details, police in Medenine seized 35 assault rifles and large amounts of cash in an operation carried out in coordination with the judicial police and other units.

In addition, two men and two women were detained in relation with the operation. Two other men were also arrested for monitoring the road which the vehicle used during its attempt to smuggle the weapons.

Authorities also arrested a fifth man in Kasserine district in connection with the operation, after coordination between the Prosecutors’ offices in Medenine and Kasserine.

Earlier, Interior Minister Hichem Fourati said all measures have been taken in anticipation of any development on the Tunisian-Libyan border, stressing the deployment of security units and the army along the coast and on the country's eastern border.

“All measures have been taken to prepare for any possible infiltration of terrorists on Tunisian soil,” he said.



Qatar and Lebanon Reaffirm Commitment to Dialogue, Regional Stability

Emir of Qatar Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani received President Joseph Aoun in Doha (AFP).   
Emir of Qatar Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani received President Joseph Aoun in Doha (AFP).   
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Qatar and Lebanon Reaffirm Commitment to Dialogue, Regional Stability

Emir of Qatar Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani received President Joseph Aoun in Doha (AFP).   
Emir of Qatar Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani received President Joseph Aoun in Doha (AFP).   

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun and Emir of Qatar Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations and resolving regional issues through dialogue and diplomacy during a high-level meeting in Doha.

In a joint statement issued at the conclusion of Aoun’s official visit to Qatar, both leaders emphasized the importance of supporting the Lebanese Armed Forces and the full implementation of United Nations Security Council Resolution 1701. As part of this commitment, Sheikh Tamim announced the renewal of Qatar’s financial assistance to Lebanon’s military, pledging $60 million to support army salaries and providing 162 military vehicles to enhance operational capabilities.

“The Lebanese Army plays a vital national role in maintaining stability and securing the country’s borders, and it is essential to provide it with the necessary support,” the statement read.

Aoun’s visit included a series of discussions aimed at deepening the longstanding ties between the two countries.

In a post on social media platform X, Sheikh Tamim said: “Today in Doha, I held important talks with President Joseph Aoun, during which we explored ways to further develop the solid relationship between our two nations — a relationship rooted in cooperation, understanding, and mutual respect.”

“Qatar remains steadfast in its support for Lebanon and its people, and stands ready to assist in their efforts toward recovery, growth, and prosperity,” he added.

The joint statement stressed the shared desire to enhance cooperation across all sectors, strengthen partnerships, and increase trade and investment to serve the mutual interests of both nations.

On regional affairs, the two leaders reviewed the latest developments in the Middle East and reaffirmed the importance of coordinated positions and joint Arab action. They underscored the necessity of resolving conflicts through diplomacy, including efforts to de-escalate tensions in southern Lebanon.

The statement also highlighted the two countries’ unified stance on key Arab issues. Both sides reiterated their unwavering support for the Palestinian people’s legitimate rights, including the establishment of an independent state along the 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital, in line with the Arab Peace Initiative and relevant international resolutions. They also reaffirmed their support for the unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity of Syria.