Obama offers support to Essebsi in wake of Tunis museum attack

(MENAFN- Kuwait News Agency (KUNA)) US President Barack Obama spoke on Thursday with President Beji Caid Essebsi of Tunisia to offer condolences and support following the terrorist attack against the National Bardo Museum in Tunis, the White House said in an announcement.

President Obama "extended sympathy, on behalf of all Americans, to the victims' families and loved ones," the announcement said.

"The President commended the Tunisian people for their commitment to standing strong and united in the face of terrorism, and reiterated that Tunisia's inclusive democracy is a powerful example in the region and beyond." Obama "affirmed our continued robust cooperation on counter-terrorism and broader security issues with the Tunisian government, and offered continued US assistance and support in the ongoing investigation," the statement said.

Two gunmen killed 21 people in the attack, and ISIL claimed responsibility for it. Most of the dead were foreign tourists, 17 of them from cruise ships.