France protests: 1,200 arrested as cost-of-living rallies turn violent

More than 1,200 people were arrested in France on Saturday as violent clashes, looting, and arson erupted during nationwide cost-of-living protests, which drew an estimated 550,000 demonstrators. The government condemned an "escalation in violence" as buildings were set ablaze and shops ransacked. In Paris, riot police used tear gas and water cannon against crowds, with fires and vehicle torching reported in central locations like Place de la République. Sixty officers were injured, and a man in Saint-Étienne lost a hand to a grenade. Authorities blamed "hooded individuals" for targeted attacks on city halls and businesses. The protests, initially focused on education standards and living costs, have intensified despite government concessions like promising 3,000 extra supply teachers. Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu accused groups of using the unrest as a "warm-up" for presidential elections, while President Emmanuel Macron vowed prosecution for those who looted or attacked public buildings.