French protests: 40 arrested in Paris as police fire tear gas

Around 40 people were arrested in Paris on Saturday as police fired tear gas at protesters during nationwide demonstrations over the cost of living and rising fuel prices. President Emmanuel Macron appealed for calm and respect for people and property. Police reported arrests primarily for carrying weapons or prohibited protective gear, with enhanced checks in place. Clashes occurred in Marseille, where trash cans were set alight, and police were permitted to use stun grenades despite prior criticism over demonstrator injuries. Up to 40,000 people were expected in Paris, with protests stemming from last month's high school demonstrations in poor suburbs over inequality and weak public spending. The police watchdog is investigating two dozen cases of alleged police violence.