Tunisian Olympians Targeted by Islamist Radicals

Religion Today | Published: Aug 14, 2012

Tunisian Olympians Targeted by Islamist Radicals

Islamist radicals have targeted two Tunisian Olympic medalists for behavior and dress considered un-Islamic, as the country that launched the Arab Spring uprisings is facing increasing challenges from religious extremists, the Associated Press reports. Islamists on social media networks called on the government to strip Habiba Ghribi -- who won silver in the 3,000-meter steeplechase, the first Tunisian woman to win an Olympic medal -- of her nationality because her running gear was too revealing. A Facebook campaign by the extremist group Ansar al Chariaa is targeting swimmer Oussama Mellouli for drinking juice before racing during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan. Mellouli won gold in the 10-kilometer marathon and bronze in the 1,500-meter freestyle.



Tunisian Olympians Targeted by Islamist Radicals