Europe's far right gains ground as fuel protests shake France

Europe is experiencing widespread protests over soaring fuel and living costs, fueled by the US-Iran war's impact on energy prices, which is boosting far-right parties ahead of key elections in France, Italy, and Poland. The unrest has led to violent demonstrations, looting, and significant political shifts. In France, protests over living costs have escalated into some of the country's worst unrest in decades, with President Emmanuel Macron acknowledging "legitimate demands" while condemning violence. Far-right leader Marine Le Pen has gained in polls by proposing fuel tax cuts, while similar energy-related anger is boosting parties like Germany's AfD and new groups in Italy and Poland. The European Commission estimates the Iran conflict has cost Europe roughly $112 billion, with gas prices jumping 140% and diesel doubling. Populist parties are framing energy costs as avoidable government policy choices rather than geopolitical shocks, with some advocating restoring energy ties with Russia, challenging the mainstream consensus on Ukraine support.