Iran and Tunisia Strengthen Ties Amidst Regional Shifts

Despite growing diplomatic and economic interactions, relations between Iran and Tunisia remain superficial, reflecting a shared anti-Western stance rather than deep strategic cooperation. President Kais Saied's visit to Tehran for Ebrahim Raisi's funeral and meetings with Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei signal warming ties, but economic and security links remain minimal. Tunisian imports from Iran were $1.4 million in 2022, while exports were $80,000 in 2023. Security ties are described as "non-existent." Tunisia's decision to lift visa requirements for Iranians raises concerns about potential intelligence activities. Under Saied, Tunisia has adopted an anti-Western foreign policy, seeking alternative partners like China and becoming more dependent on Algeria. Iran aims to expand its influence in Africa through its "neighborly policy." However, Tunisia's secular traditions and suspicion of political Islam limit the partnership. The US should focus on preventing the expansion of Iran-Tunisia relations into sectors affecting US interests, maintaining support for Tunisian security forces and infrastructure.