France Imposes Local Curfews After Riots

France is imposing limited, localized curfews after weekend demonstrations over rising living costs and deteriorating public services escalated into riots, arson and looting in Paris and other cities. Authorities reported nearly 2,400 arrests; the interior ministry said more than 500,000 people joined the demonstrations, and nearly 1,000 police officers and firefighters were injured. President Emmanuel Macron rejected Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez’s resignation and ordered a review of planning and intelligence failures, as well as changes to policing tactics. Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu said the curfews aim to prevent further violence and protect businesses, while the government left open the possibility of stronger action. The government blamed far-left groups, while opposition figures disputed responsibility, and the unrest has added to political tensions ahead of next year’s presidential election.