France's school protest crackdown ignites outrage in Macron's final months

France faces nationwide unrest as student protests over school funding clash with heavy police tactics, sparking outrage and casting a shadow over President Emmanuel Macron's final months in office. Mass arrests of over 8,000 people, mostly minors, and injuries from riot-control weapons have fueled criticism of the government. Police unions complain of poor equipment and violent rioters, while authorities report over 900 officers and 150 staff injured. The government has suspended one grenade type after a teen lost a hand, and 36 investigations into alleged police misconduct are underway. Experts note police response varies by protest group, reflecting political priorities.