France Deploys 70,000 Police as Protests Erupt Nationwide

Large-scale protests occurred across France on October 24, with unions and citizens demanding improvements in education and public services while expressing dissatisfaction with the government. Approximately 70,000 police officers were mobilized nationwide under heightened security. The demonstrations followed riots that broke out on October 17, prompting authorities to deploy significant security forces. In Paris, the protest route avoided the central commercial district, while in Lyon, police used tear gas to disperse crowds in restricted areas. Interior Minister Nunez reported no major incidents before the protests began, though 135 people were arrested nationwide for reasons including the seizure of prohibited equipment.