French Authorities Ban Yellow Vests Protest in Central Grenoble

French authorities have banned protests in Grenoble's city center ahead of a second "Yellow Vests" demonstration scheduled for Saturday, following violent clashes and property damage during an October 17 march against the high cost of living. The prefect of Isère issued orders prohibiting gatherings in the city center from Thursday morning through Sunday morning, while also banning the sale, transport, and use of fireworks and flammable materials, as well as face-covering items, through Monday. Organizers say the Saturday march will proceed but with a revised route outside the restricted zone. The October 17 protest drew between 13,000 and 30,000 participants in Grenoble, with subsequent looting leading to initial court convictions. The new restrictions aim to prevent further public order disturbances during the upcoming mobilization.