The Eiffel Tower has been at the centre of a major controversy after staff went on strike over allegations that female employees were sidelined during a private visit by a Hindu religious delegation. Staff representatives allege that some women were asked to leave their posts, while others were reportedly replaced by male colleagues. They also claim female employees were instructed to avoid certain areas while the delegation was present.

A rare and powerful tornado tore through Pomas in southern France, damaging around 300 homes and injuring 39 people, including two critically. The storm ripped roofs from houses, damaged vehicles and forced the evacuation of the entire village. The tornado struck as severe thunderstorms followed an intense heatwave across southern France, leaving thousands of households without power.