This has put a significant strain on the Tunisian authorities, who have been trying to curb the number of migrants attempting to leave the country.

[4] Tunisia is currently facing its worst financial crisis, and negotiations for a loan with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) have stalled.

The country has also faced significant political challenges since July 2021 when Tunisian President Kais Saied seized most powers, shut down parliament, and moved to rule by decree.

[5] Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has warned that if Tunisia's political and economic situation does not stabilize, there might be a "migratory wave" towards Europe.

The US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has also urged Tunisia to reach a bailout deal with the IMF urgently.