HOSTAGES TAKEN IN DEADLY ATTACK AT TUNIS MUSEUM [UPDATED]

The Observer’s Nate Freeman reports that two gunmen in military uniforms opened fire outside the Bardo National Museum in Tunis. They then entered the building and took a number of tourists hostage. According to USA Today, at least eight people have been killed in the assault. Forces are apparently now surrounding the two militants, who are still inside the museum.

UPDATE, March 18, 1:15 PM: David Kirkpatrick is reporting in the New York Times_ that nineteen people are confirmed dead in the attack. In addition, the two militants were killed by the security forces which stormed the museum.

Kirkpatrick also says that, according to local reports, a third gunman may be on the loose. No group has yet claimed responsibility for the attack.