As they begin their soccer World Cup campaign on Monday, England is looking to seize the initiative with a win over Tunisia.
But whatever happens on the pitch, England and Tunisia can take satisfaction from their constructive counterterrorism relationship. Constructed following bloody Islamic State attacks targeting western tourists in 2015 and motivated by regional concerns, U.K.-Tunisian counterterrorism cooperation is close and productive.
As the European Council on Foreign Relations notes, “France and the United Kingdom have taken charge of working with Tunisia on aviation security, including by improving passenger screening. These countries have also helped train a cadre of Tunisian agents — who will in turn train other Tunisians — on the initial response to terrorist incidents. The UK has worked on hotel security (including that involving the use of quad bikes on beaches) and medical training for first responders.”
These steps complement broader British security service activities assisting Tunisian efforts to target, monitor and disrupt terrorist plotters. Yet a major advantage of the relationship is that Tunisia’s post-Arab spring governing structures have been sympathetic to democratic norms and strong relations with the west. This includes Tunisia’s Islamist Ennahda party, which has unified in opposition to extremism.
Still, the security environment in Tunisia remains a tough one. Thousands of Tunisians have joined ISIS and tens of thousands more remain highly sympathetic towards jihadist groups. Further complicating matters is Tunisia’s geopolitical position wedged between the anarchic Libya and insecure Algeria.
But who will win the soccer game? Well, although a few Tunisian players play in French league teams, they lack the star quality of England’s young aggressive team. If the English find the resolve to take risks, they should be able to throw Tunisia off balance and dominate the match with a 3-0 victory. Unfortunately, when it comes to England teams and international soccer tournaments, the presumption of victory often leads to tragic disappointments.
