The US donated 10 tons of personnel protective gear “to support Tunisia’s fight against terrorism and … to help Tunisia succeed in its transition to democracy,” and promised to “make available to the Tunisian Air Force 12 UH-60M Blackhawk helicopters to aid in the fight against terrorism.” A firefight broke out in Fernana on Aug. 9 between special forces and an armed terrorist group. Security forces seized 13 rifles hidden in a car crossing over from Libya on Aug. 12. A rights group criticized the government’s decision to suspend the activities of over 150 organizations alleged to have terrorist connections. Reservists have been called up to secure the fall elections from terrorist attacks.
