Tunisia appeal court upholds heavy prison sentences in ‘conspiracy’ trial

A Tunisian appeal court has upheld heavy prison sentences for about 40 opposition figures in a controversial mass trial. The defendants were charged with "conspiracy against state security" and "belonging to a terrorist group," with accusations stemming from activities like meeting with foreign diplomats. The sentences range from 10 to 45 years, with some, like businessman Kamel Ltaief, receiving reduced terms while others, including activist Chaima Issa, saw their prison time increased. Human rights organizations and the UN have widely condemned the verdict, describing it as a politically motivated move by President Kais Saied to crush political dissent.