Tunisia - Beirut Times - Reported by: Mona Ibrahim

In a notable diplomatic development, Bill Bazzi officially assumed his duties as the new U.S. Ambassador to the Republic of Tunisia in October 2025, following his swearing-in ceremony in Washington. Ambassador Bazzi, of Lebanese origin, expressed deep gratitude for the warm welcome he received at the U.S. Embassy in Tunis, describing his first week as “productive” and praising his team as “dedicated and mission-driven.”

Appointed by President Donald Trump, Bazzi’s nomination was seen as a culmination of his distinguished military and civic career. He played a pivotal role in securing Trump’s victory in the 2024 elections in Dearborn and the state of Michigan, earning the President’s public praise as a “partner in a historic win” and a trusted figure in future diplomatic endeavors.

Born in Bint Jbeil, Lebanon in 1963, Bazzi is recognized as a multifaceted American leader. He served as Mayor of Dearborn Heights, Michigan, beginning in 2021, becoming the first Arab-American to hold the position in a city where Arab-Americans make up roughly one-third of the population. He previously served as Acting City Council President, where he was instrumental in advancing local governance and community representation.

Bazzi brings with him 21 years of service in the U.S. Marine Corps, where he held leadership roles in humanitarian and security missions, including counterterrorism, democratic governance support, and infrastructure reconstruction in conflict zones. His military honors include the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, the Joint Service Commendation Medal, and the Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal.

In addition to his military background, Bazzi has professional experience in the private sector, having worked with Boeing and Ford in quality management and engineering roles. His contributions focused on public safety and productivity through compliance and regulatory auditing initiatives. He holds a Master’s degree in Aeronautical Science and a Bachelor’s in Professional Aeronautics from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, reflecting a strong academic and technical foundation.

The U.S. Embassy in Tunis officially announced Bazzi’s arrival, affirming his commitment to strengthening bilateral relations between the United States and Tunisia. In one of his first symbolic gestures, Bazzi visited the North Africa American Cemetery in Carthage, honoring the sacrifice of over 2,000 American service members who lost their lives during World War II. He was accompanied by General Dagvin Anderson, Commander of U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM), who was in Tunisia for defense talks with the Ministry of National Defense, aimed at enhancing security cooperation.

On Monday, November 10, 2025, Ambassador Bazzi formally presented his credentials to Tunisia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Migration, and Tunisians Abroad, Mr. Mohamed Ali Nafti. The meeting reaffirmed the historic depth of U.S.-Tunisian relations and the shared commitment to expanding bilateral cooperation across key sectors, including security, economy, trade, higher education, scientific research, technology, tourism, and transportation.

Ambassador Bazzi expressed pride in his diplomatic assignment in Tunisia, commending the strength of the relationship between the two nations and reaffirming the United States’ commitment to supporting Tunisia’s development and reform efforts. He also emphasized the U.S. readiness to enhance economic and trade cooperation and to open new avenues for partnership between public and private sector stakeholders in both countries.

Bazzi’s appointment comes at a critical time as Washington seeks to broaden its partnerships in North Africa amid rising regional challenges. He is viewed as a figure who blends military expertise, Arab cultural heritage, and the ability to engage diverse political and social groups — positioning him to play a key role in advancing political dialogue, supporting development programs, and deepening security cooperation between Tunisia and the United States.

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