Tunis: Defence Minister Khaled Shili has affirmed that Tunisia's security situation remains stable and is progressively improving despite the challenges posed by regional and global changes. Shili credited the proactive efforts of the military and security forces in countering terrorism and organized crime as key contributors to this stability.
According to Agence Tunis Afrique Presse, Shili addressed a joint parliamentary session discussing the Ministry of National Defence's mission, expressing his satisfaction with the ongoing security improvements. However, he acknowledged the complex geopolitical landscape characterized by uncertainty and multiple risks, underscoring the necessity for the military to anticipate and adapt to these changes to maintain readiness and effectively respond to crises.
The minister highlighted a 13% increase in the ministry's budget compared to 2025, aimed at equipping and enhancing the readiness of the armed forces in line with Tunisia's geopolitical needs and the Ministry's 2021-2030 strategy. Key priorities include border protection, counter-terrorism, and combating cross-border organized crime.
Shili noted the success of ongoing operations in neutralizing terrorist movements, though he warned of persistent threats that require constant vigilance from intelligence and field units. Continued military operations focus on the central-western regions, monitoring strategic areas such as Chaambi, Sammama, Mghila, Salloum, and Essif to prevent terrorist encampments.
The military's vigilance extends to land and sea borders to curb smuggling and illegal crossings. Between September 2024 and September 2025, authorities intercepted 1,880 illegal crossers and seized substantial amounts of contraband, including 360 smuggling vehicles, 4 million cigarette packs, 270,000 drug tablets, and 163,000 liters of fuel. Southern border units recently intercepted smuggling vehicles, seizing 600,000 drug tablets and other sensitive materials.
The Navy's maritime patrols have been pivotal in combating smuggling, terrorism, and organized crime, with 113 rescue operations saving 2,138 lives from Tunisian and neighboring coasts during the same period. Additionally, de-mining efforts have resulted in 191 operations that removed or neutralized wartime remnants and mines, alongside firefighting missions that involved 57 nationwide interventions.
Shili concluded by stating that parliamentary proposals align with the military's strategic goals, which encompass addressing both traditional and non-traditional threats, fostering human resources development, supporting national development, strengthening international military cooperation, promoting research and defense manufacturing, and implementing legal reforms to enhance military performance and tackle emerging challenges.