Tunisia Reports 150-200 Deaths in Blackout Heatwave on Saied's Emergency Rule Anniversary

A death toll estimated between 150 and 200 people has been reported after more than a week of nationwide blackouts amid an unprecedented heatwave in Tunisia. The power outages, which began in early July, have left hospitals, water pumps and essential services without electricity, exacerbating the effects of temperatures that have far exceeded seasonal norms.

The crisis unfolds as Tunisia marks the fifth anniversary of President Kais Saied’s suspension of parliament and the subsequent centralisation of authority in the presidency, a move that has drawn international scrutiny. While officials have not confirmed the casualty figures, health and humanitarian agencies are warning of a growing humanitarian emergency as the country struggles to restore power and provide relief to affected communities.