French President Emmanuel Macron has headed to the Gulf as violent protests and unrest rock France, putting his government under mounting pressure. Protesters reportedly attempted to move towards the Élysée Palace, while shops and public buildings were looted or set ablaze during clashes. French authorities arrested thousands, and the government is considering local curfews to contain further violence. Macron condemned the unrest but refused to dismiss his interior minister, despite acknowledging security failures. The protests have been fuelled by soaring living costs and wider public grievances.