The attack, carried out on June 26, 2015, by a lone gunman linked to the so-called Islamic State, remains one of the deadliest in the country’s modern history.

The massacre unfolded in broad daylight when the attacker opened fire on tourists relaxing by the sea. The event sent shockwaves around the world and marked a turning point in Tunisia’s post-2011 transition, coming just months after the Bardo Museum attack in Tunis, which left 25 foreign visitors dead.

“This was a deeply traumatic time for Tunisia,” said journalist Elizia Volkmann, who has covered the North Africa region extensively. “Thousands of Tunisians had travelled to join extremist groups abroad, and the atmosphere in the country was one of fear and uncertainty.”

Criticism mounted over the slow response by local security forces, with reports indicating it took police 40 minutes to reach the scene. The delay sparked public outcry and raised serious questions about the state’s preparedness for such attacks.

Since then, Tunisia has worked closely with international partners to strengthen its counterterrorism capabilities. Support from the United Kingdom and the European Union has helped train specialised police units and improve coordination in responding to security threats.

“These efforts have made a tangible difference,” Volkmann noted. “The level of threat has significantly decreased, and security services are now far better equipped to deal with potential attacks.”

Today, as flowers are laid and moments of silence observed, Tunisians and foreign visitors alike reflect on the lives lost and the hard-won gains in national security.  

--ChannelAfrica--