France is rocked by massive demonstrations as nearly half a million people reportedly take to the streets across the country, with around 200,000 protesters in Paris, according to youth organisations and student unions. The protests bring together students, trade unions and activists amid growing anger over economic pressures, inequality and other domestic issues. But the demonstrations also see alarming scenes of violence. Reports describe Molotov cocktails and petrol bombs being hurled during clashes, with police deploying tear gas and water cannon. Around 70,000 police and gendarmes are mobilised, while 565 people are reportedly arrested nationwide.  

France faces another wave of unrest as mass protests turn violent across several cities. More than 400,000 people take to the streets nationwide, according to France’s Interior Ministry, with around 110,000 protesters reported in Paris. Clashes erupt near Porte de Vincennes as police deploy tear gas and water cannons. Fires and property damage are reported in Marseille and Bordeaux, while security forces confront crowds in other cities. Authorities deploy up to 70,000 officers amid fears of further violence, and nearly 1,000 arrests are reported. The demonstrations come amid anger over the cost of living and school funding, putting fresh pressure on President Emmanuel Macron’s government.