Tunisian Army Battles 'Terrorists' Near Algerian Border

The Tunisian Army has intensified its hunt for Islamist militants in a remote mountain area near the Algerian border.

An armed forces spokesman said on August 2 the army had launched a large-scale operation, involving ground and air units, to clear the Mount Chambi area of "terrorists."

The army has been trying to track down militants in Mount Chambi since spring.

On July 29, the bodies of eight soldiers were found in the area with their throats cut after being ambushed by militants.

Algeria said on August 1 it had boosted its military presence near the border due to increased tensions.

The rise in instability comes at a time of political turmoil in Tunisia, which has seen large antigovernment protests after the assassination of an opposition politician last week.

Based on reporting by AFP and Reuters