France arrests 1,800 as protests over inflation and student strikes turn violent

French Interior Minister Laurent Nunez announced on Sunday that more than 1,800 people were arrested during violent protests across France, which saw clashes, arson, and looting. The violence occurred in Paris, Marseille, Lyon, Bordeaux, and other cities on the sidelines of mass demonstrations against high inflation, partly caused by the U.S.-Iran war, and followed four weeks of student protests. Nunez blamed "several thousand ultra-left individuals" for the clashes, arson, vandalism of public buildings, and widespread looting, noting that around 500 police, firemen, and paramedics were injured. The protests, which drew students, workers, farmers, and activists, were fueled by anger over rising living costs and concerns about public services, with cars set on fire and shops looted. Nunez stated France "will not yield to those who want to impose disorder and violence," as President Emmanuel Macron faces growing pressure over the economy and public spending.