Photo: http://www.lapresse.tn/

Clouds of black smoke hover over the heads of Tunisian security forces dispatched to the scene of violent protests, reportedly sparked by an art exhibition which "undermines Islam".

Le Bardo — Interior Minister Ali Larayedh spoke Tuesday of the possibility of extending to other regions of the country the curfew, imposed on Tuesday in eight governorates including greater Tunis.

"The Tunisian people are readying to live through a critical stage in their history, which requires great sacrifices," the Minister said in his address to constituent members.

"The Interior Ministry is carrying on its fight against acts of violence," he declared, stressing care to preserve security, freedom and human rights.