Tunisia's Saied Blames Heatwave Blackouts on Sabotage, Contradicting Utilities

Tunisia hit 49.8°C on August 27, 2026, triggering rotating power cuts that halted water pumping in Mahdia and Sfax. State utility STEG cited grid stress; water agency SONEDE blamed power-dependent pumping failures. President Saied called them "premeditated acts" — uncorroborated by any official. August 20 protests underscored growing public anger at his rule.