UNWTO condemns Tunisia museum attack

The UNWTO is among the organizations adding to the condemnation of yesterday’s attack in Tunisia’s Bardo Museum, in which gunmen opened fire and killed a total of 23 people, 20 of them tourists.

According to a UNWTO statement, “this act of violence deserves the condemnation of the international community. As part of the global tourism family, we are shocked by these horrible attacks. The relatives and friends of the victims are in our thoughts and we once more convey our solidarity with the people and the Government of Tunisia” said UNWTO Secretary-General, Taleb Rifai.

“Tourism is a lifeline for the economy of Tunisia and we will continue our support to ensure that tourism continues to provide development opportunities to its people," he added.

More than 40 people were also injured in the Wednesday attack, in which gunmen opened fire in the museum, located in the capital city of Tunis. While two gunmen were shot and killed during the attack, four suspects with direct links to the attack were arrested this morning, according to a report by the BBC. The Islamic State has since claimed responsibility.

According to reports, among those killed were cruise passengers with MSC Cruises and Costa Cruises; the two lines have since suspended stopovers in Tunis, the BBC said.