Terrorist Attack at Tunisian Vacation Resort

[NucksPatsFan]

Sousse, Tunisia (CNN) Tourists fled a Tunisian seaside resort on Saturday, a day after an attack killed at least 38 people and wounded at least 39 others.

A stream of buses quietly ferried out thousands of guests who abruptly ended their beach holidays in the coastal city of Sousse.

ISIS claimed responsibility for the attack that started on the beach outside the Hotel Riu Imperial Marhaba, but it wasn't clear if the Islamist group had any direct role in it.

The gunman

ISIS posted a photo of the alleged attacker, whom Tunisian authorities identified as 24-year-old Saif Al-Deen Al Rezgui from the town of Gaafour, about 100 miles northeast of Sousse.

Al Rezgui's uncle and neighbors identified him as the man in the ISIS photo.

His uncle told CNN that Al Rezgui visited his hometown and parents' home Thursday, the day before the attack.

Friday evening, Al Rezgui's mother and father were taken from their home to Tunis as part of the investigation, the uncle said.

Al Rezgui lived in Gaafour until 2011 and later moved to the nearby region of Kairouan to go to college. Police described him as a normal young man who participated in a music group while he lived in Gaafour.

"He used to love soccer," one neighbor said. "Always him and his father, playing in front of the house."

Said another, "He couldn't have done it. It's like some radicals kidnapped his mind."

Al Rezui was not known to have problems in Gaafour and was seen as an introvert who came from a poor family, police said. They added that his younger brother died in 2010 when struck by lightning, a death they believe may have affected Al Rezgui.

Initial reports Friday about the attack suggested there had been three gunmen, but a Tunisian Interior Ministry spokesman later said they were aware of only one and that he had been killed.

The spokesman, Mohammed Ali Aroui, told CNN on Saturday that the gunman specialized in electronics in pursuing his masters degree and didn't have any known relationship with a terror group

He worked in the past for an entertainment organization involved in tourism, which may explain how he knew the hotel layout, Aroui said. It is not yet clear what his current job was, if he had one, the spokesman added.

His first passport was issued in 2013 and there was no sign of foreign travel on it, he said.

Two U.S. officials said they believe the attack may have been inspired by ISIS, though not directed by the terrorist group.

Saturday night, a large crowd of Tunisians turned out at the hotel in a display of unity after the attacks. They chanted and sang, waved the red and white Tunisian flag, and lit candles at the spot where the dozens of victims had been shot the day before.

It started on the beach

The attack lasted about five minutes, starting on the beach, continuing at the pool and in the hotel lobby, and ending when the gunman was killed in the hotel's parking lot, Aroui said.

Tunisian Prime Minister Habib Essid said the gunman hid an AK-47 machine gun under an umbrella to smuggle it onto the beach, which overlooks the Mediterranean Sea.

British tourist Ellie Makin watched him carry it.

"A guy had walked onto the beach and had dropped what I'd seen as an umbrella and underneath (it) was a massive gun of some sort and it was like in the army," she said.

"He was just firing left and right and center. I got up quick as possible ... and shouted, 'Run, there is a gun.'"

A British man wounded in the arm described running into the sea to escape.

"I heard someone firing a gun and then I looked at my wife, and she got up and ran," the man, whose name wasn't given, told Tunisia's Watania 1 TV.

"As I turned, the bullet just hit me in my arm. ... My wife ran to the hotel, and I just saw the gunman firing shots randomly at people laying on the sunbeds on the beach."

Survivor: I was lucky

Speaking to CNN from a hospital bed in Sousse, 76-year-old Ukrainian vacationer Nadezhda Vasilievna said she was lying on the beach reading a newspaper when she heard an explosion.

"My husband went to swim, and I was lying and reading the newspaper by the sea. Suddenly I heard an explosion," she said.

"I saw the man running and shooting. He shot at us. For those who moved, he fired again. I looked where he pointed the gun. When he aimed the weapon in my side, I felt a kick. The bullet went right through my soft tissues."

She said she watched, stunned, as the gunman -- whose appearance she can't recall except that he was dressed in black -- carried on firing.

Those who were standing or sitting, were in the center of the beach, or were closest to the water bore the brunt of the attack, she said.

"I was lucky," Vasilievna said. "I had no fear. It was like a movie. I just watched him and tried to deceive him. I just lost a lot of blood."

After the rampage ended, she was helped to a medical unit in the hotel and then on to the hospital.

Her husband, Igor Vladimirovich, age 78, was swimming at the time and said he watched the attack from the water in disbelief. "The terrorist fired almost without stopping. He moved quickly," he said.

It was the couple's second trip to Tunisia.

The dead

Tunisian authorities on Saturday began transferring the bodies from Sousse to the capital, Tunis, the Ministry of Health said. It updated the death toll to 38 and said 39 people were wounded.

"The nationalities of the killed, most of them are British, German, and French, this is the 95% of them," according to Prime Minister Essid. "The majority of them are British, then the second in number were German, then third in numbers were French."

Fifteen of the dozens killed were British, and the number may rise, the UK Foreign Office said.

Terrorist attack in Tunisia 14 photos

EXPAND GALLERY

British Foreign Minister Tobias Ellwood called it "the most significant attack on British people since 7/7," the day in 2005 when suicide bombers struck the London transport network, killing 52 and wounding hundreds.

One Belgian, a German and a woman from Ireland were also among the dead, with the Irish government indicating Saturday that there is also "grave concern for two other Irish citizens who had been at the scene."

The Irish victim, Lorna Carty, was a nurse from County Meath on holiday with her husband, Declan, who was recovering from a recent illness.

She was very involved with the local Gaelic Athletic Association club, acting as a physical therapist and taking a big role in fund-raising, said club chairman Liam O'Farrell. He said she was helping to sell raffle tickets for the club right up to last week, before she went on the trip.

"Lorna was very popular here," he said. "She's been with the club for many, many years. Her own little lad, Simon, started off at under-8s."

Carty's son, Simon, is now a well-known local Gaelic soccer player and a member of the Meath senior county team. He was due to play in an inter-county match Sunday with his family watching, O'Farrell said.

"Lorna would have been so proud tomorrow of Simon, and it's just heartbreaking," he said.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel spoke with Tunisian President Beji Caid Essebsi on Saturday, a German government spokesman said. Merkel expressed her condolences, the spokesman said, and both leaders agreed to cooperate more closely on the issue of terrorism.

In the wake of the resort attack, Essid announced a crackdown on what he called "illegal mosques."

The mosques were "spreading rumors and poisons to encourage terrorism," he said Saturday "About 80 (mosques) will be closed ... within one week."

Attacks also in France, Kuwait

Tunisia's nightmare came the same day as at least two fatal terrorist attacks in other countries.

A man caused an explosion at a chemical plant near Lyon in southeastern France after having beheaded his boss and leaving the head hanging on a fence, French officials said. Authorities detained the suspect.

And ISIS claimed responsibility for an apparent bomb blast at the Shiite-affiliated Al-Sadiq mosque in Kuwait's capital during Friday prayers, leaving at least 27 dead and more than 200 wounded.

Spain raised its terror alert in light of the three attacks, the country's interior minister, Jorge Ferandez, said. Other leaders, like British Prime Minister David Cameron, reacted as well.

"I am sickened by the attacks in Tunisia, France and Kuwait," Cameron tweeted. "Our countries stand together in combating the horrors of terrorism."

[Green Building]

Brutal. Seriously lame. Why?

No answer to that question justifies the actions.

[WHL rocks]

Why would anyone go on vacation in a muslim country?

[Fox Mulder]

Why would anyone go on vacation in a muslim country?

This is an incredibly sad question, yet I have to agree with you. It's really a shame when a small extremist minority can control the world's perspective of a beautiful culture.

I wouldn't travel anywhere I wouldn't feel safe. The list grows longer every week.

[drummer4now]

Why would anyone go on vacation in a muslim country?

Lol what a ignorant thing to say.. Might as well not travel anywhere.

Obviously there are some areas in the Muslim world where travel is not recommended (active conflicts, ISIS, archaic laws), but a country like Tunsia should be regarded as safe even for MENA standards.

I know someone who just came back relatively unharmed (only pick pocketed) lol from Morocco

[WHL rocks]

Lol what a ignorant thing to say.. Might as well not travel anywhere.

Obviously there are some areas in the Muslim world where travel is not recommended (active conflicts, ISIS, archaic laws), but a country like Tunsia should be regarded as safe even for MENA standards.

I know someone who just came back relatively unharmed (only pick pocketed) lol from Morocco

I lived very close to that part of the world for many years of my life. Know the culture, customs and religion very well. I can even communicate in a cpl of languages from a muslim country. So I'm not ignorant at all. Just not interested in having my head chopped off for not being muslim.

Actually they even cut off other muslims' heads if not from same sect so being muslim probably would not even help. Same day as this massacre a Sunni blew him self up in a Shia mosque in Kuwait killing 29 ppl. I would never put my family in that type of risk. There are plenty of beaches on rest of the planet for me to relax at.

Istanbul is one of the cities on top of my list to visit. But i would never put myself or my kids at risk by actually going there. Next thing you know I'm at the blue mosque and some dude decides he wants to go to jannat that day. No thanks. For now I'll stick to Anthony Bourdain, thank you very much.

[Mr. Ambien]

Why would anyone go on vacation in a muslim country?

[nucklehead]

http://www.irishtimes.com/news/crime-and-law/irish-woman-shot-dead-in-tunisia-attack-was-well-known-nurse-1.2264665

One of the sadder stories. Someone had the great idea to give these two this trip as a gift.

The Irish woman shot dead while sunbathing on the beach in the Tunisia terrorist attack worked as a nurse and had fought to save the lives of schoolchildren killed and injury in a major school bus crash in the Republic ten years ago.

Lorna Carty, from Robinstown in Co Meath, had travelled to the coastal resort town of Sousse with her husband, Declan, after the couple had been given the trip as a present.

Mr Carty, a dairy farmer who has lived in Robinstown all his life, had undergone heart surgery recently and the trip abroad was intended as a break to help him recover.

[Offensive Threat]

So is ISIS going to claim responsibility for every nutbar that goes on a killing spree and ends up dead? Why not? Hes not around to disagree and say he only did it because hes a nutbar.

[Gurn]

There is no place, except perhaps your house, that is truly safe. Shootings happen on a weekly basis in Vancouver so I should never go there either?

[TheFirstLine]

Why would anyone go on vacation in a muslim country?

Dubai says hi

[WHL rocks]

Dubai says hi

It's a very nice place to look at from all accounts. I have a very good friend who lives in Al Ain, not exactly Dubai but a cpl hours drive away, still in UAE. Another friend moved to the lower mainland with his wife and children after living in Dubai for most of his life. My best friend growing up was in transit in Dubai last year with his wife and kids. They loved it.

But you could end up in jail for the most trivial thing. Like filming or taking pics of an Emirati and posting them on social media. The Emirati will even give you a beating for a simple thing like passing them on the road.

I've seen this documentary more than once on construction of Sheikh Zayed mosque, just amazing. The carpet was woven in Iran and its 9 massive segments are set together to look like one continuous piece. Other pieces were crafted in Italy. Pretty cool doc if you are interested.

But at the end of the day I just don't see my self booking a family vacation there. Most times I travel to Asia I transit thru Europe. A couple of times I transited thru Hong Kong, Korea and Singapore to get to my destination. I'd much rather stick to these places.

Have you gone to Dubai for vacation?

[Mr. Ambien]

Dubai says hi

Yes Dubai says hi..

The same Dubai which has Sharia law. While probably the most lenient of Muslim jurisdictions, you still get jailed or worse if you: display any sort of homosexuality (one person was jailed because the handshake recipient called the guy's handshake homosexual), kiss your partner in public or hold their hand, criticize Hamas, drink booze in public and any unapproved area (basically only drink booze at your hotel because chances are high you'd get jailed everywhere else), eat in public during Ramadan, don't follow Sharia dress code, and the list goes on and on.

[drummer4now]

Yes Dubai says hi..

The same Dubai which has Sharia law. While probably the most lenient of Muslim jurisdictions, you still get jailed or worse if you: display any sort of homosexuality (one person was jailed because the handshake recipient called the guy's handshake homosexual), kiss your partner in public or hold their hand, criticize Hamas, drink booze in public and any unapproved area (basically only drink booze at your hotel because chances are high you'd get jailed everywhere else), eat in public during Ramadan, don't follow Sharia dress code, and the list goes on and on.

No different than here..

[WHL rocks]

PPL will say things on here to be politically correct and act like they would vacation in of these nut bar countries, but have never gone any where in the vicinity.

When it comes to vacation they'll go to Mexico at a 1 week on all inclusive resort where they hardly even go see the real Mexico. lol.

[drummer4now]

PPL will say things on here to be politically correct and act like they would vacation in of these nut bar countries, but have never gone any where in the vicinity.

When it comes to vacation they'll go to Mexico at a 1 week on all inclusive resort where they hardly even go see the real Mexico. lol.

True.. But if you're brown like me lol you can blend into the civil population in some of these places.

But I can understand the danger and concern people have as a terrorist attack can happen anytime and anywhere...

Having said I still would go to some of these places, and plan to in the future.

[Mr. Ambien]

No different than here..

Yes different:

https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/united-arab-emirates/local-laws-and-customs

Local laws and customs

UAE laws and customs are very different to those in the UK. Be aware of your actions to ensure that they don’t offend, especially during the holy month of Ramadan or if you intend to visit religious areas. There may be serious penalties for doing something that might not be illegal in the UK. You are strongly advised to familiarise yourself with, and respect local laws and customs.

In 2015, the holy month of Ramadan is expected to start on 18 June and finish on 18 July. See Travelling during Ramadan

You can read more about living in the UAE here.

Importing goods

Importing pork products and pornography into the UAE is illegal. Videos, books, and magazines may be subject to scrutiny and may be censored.

Drugs

There is zero tolerance for drugs-related offences. The penalties for drug trafficking, smuggling and possession, of even residual amounts, of drugs are severe. Sentences for drug trafficking can include the death penalty and possession of even the smallest amount of illegal drugs can lead to a minimum 4-year jail sentence. The Emirati authorities count the presence of drugs in the blood stream as possession. You should take care over the import of prescription drugs, some over-the-counter drugs and certain substances known as herbal highs, such as Spice or Space, which can include synthetic cannabinoids.

Many people stop off in UAE airports on their way to other destinations. UAE airports have excellent technology and security, so transiting passengers carrying even residual amounts of drugs are arrested.

Alcohol

Non-Muslim residents can get a liquor licence to drink alcohol at home. These licences are valid only in the Emirate that issued the licence. Residents must also get a permit to be able to drink in licensed venues.

Alcoholic drinks are served in licensed hotels and clubs, but it is a punishable offence to drink, or to be under the influence of alcohol, in public. The legal age for drinking alcohol is 18 in Abu Dhabi (although a Ministry of Tourism by-law allows hotels to serve alcohol only to those over 21), and 21 in Dubai and the Northern Emirates (except Sharjah, where drinking alcohol is illegal).

Passengers in transit through the UAE under the influence of alcohol may also be arrested.

Electronic cigarettes

Electronic cigarettes are illegal in the UAE and are likely to be confiscated at the border.

Dress code

Women should dress modestly when in public areas like shopping malls. Clothes should cover the tops of the arms and legs, and underwear should not be visible. Swimming attire should be worn only on beaches or at swimming pools.

Hotels

It is normal practice for hotels to take a photocopy of your passport or other ID. You can’t stay in a hotel if you’re under 18 years old and not accompanied by an adult.

Offensive behaviour

Swearing or making rude gestures is considered an obscene act and offenders can be jailed or deported. Take particular care when dealing with the police and other officials.

Public displays of affection are frowned upon, and there have been several arrests for kissing in public.

Cross-dressing is illegal.

Relationships outside marriage

Sex outside marriage is illegal and if any offenders are brought to the attention of the UAE authorities they run the risk of prosecution, imprisonment and/or a fine and deportation. Same sex marriages are not recognised.

Problems will be encountered if an unmarried woman gives birth in the UAE. These problems can range from a refusal to issue a birth certificate to arrest and imprisonment. To get a birth certificate from the UAE authorities, you must provide a marriage certificate. The registration authorities may compare the date of the marriage against the date of birth.

It is against the law to live together or to share the same hotel room with someone of the opposite sex to whom you are not married or closely related.

Homosexual relationships are illegal.

Buying property

If you want to buy property in the UAE, you should seek appropriate professional advice, as you would in the UK. A list of lawyers for Abu Dhabi and Dubai is available on the British Embassy website.

Financial crime

Financial crimes, including fraud, bouncing cheques (including post-dated and ‘security cheques’) and the non-payment of bills (including hotel bills) can often result in imprisonment and/or a fine. Bank accounts and other assets can also be frozen.

Bail is generally not available to non-residents of the UAE who are arrested for financial crimes. Those convicted will not generally be released from jail until the debt is paid or waived and they may even remain in jail after a debt has been paid if there is an outstanding sentence to be served.

Photography

Photography of certain government buildings and military installations is not allowed. Don’t photograph people without their permission. Men have been arrested for photographing women on beaches. Hobbies like bird watching and plane spotting, may be misunderstood - particularly near military sites, government buildings and airports. In February 2015, 3 British nationals were arrested while plane spotting at UAE airports. They were detained for 2 months.

PPL will say things on here to be politically correct and act like they would vacation in of these nut bar countries, but have never gone any where in the vicinity.

When it comes to vacation they'll go to Mexico at a 1 week on all inclusive resort where they hardly even go see the real Mexico. lol.

So true.

[drummer4now]

^well what do people expect lol? The region is ultra-conservative..

[Mr. Ambien]

^well what do people expect lol? The region is ultra-conservative..

Ultra conservative? The only comparably liberal place I can think of in the Muslim world is Kuwait, namely Kuwait City.

Everywhere else, you would be risking death (if not by government, then by mob), Sharia or not, just for violating any of these similar rules.

[WHL rocks]

Drug laws are very strict in Singapore too. Before you disembark you are made aware that as little as 15 grams of marijuana is punishable by death. It was a long time ago but I vaguely remember all passengers being given some sort of paper to sign and acknowledge that they've been made aware of the strict drug laws. Maybe it was on the customs form you fill out can't exactly recall. Also I remember you couldn't buy chewing gum there because ppl spit it on the sidewalk and it gets stuck on shoes etc. Also they will give you the whip for the crime of graffiti painting on public space or building. I have no problem following those laws.

But there is very little risk of getting stoned to death by a so called religious mob. I loved my stay in Singapore. It's a beautiful, clean, multi ethnic , multi cultural, modern city. I don't have a problem following rules and laws in different countries as they pertain to their culture and way of life. But this whole thing with being burned to death, have your head cut off or die in a suicide bombing by some religious nut case is bit over the top for me. I don't need that type of adventure. lol