French protests escalate as 166 arrested in yellow vest revival

Tens of thousands protested across France on Saturday in a revival of the "yellow vest" movement, with 166 arrests nationwide by midday and police bracing for further unrest. The demonstrations, driven by anger over rising living costs, drew students and workers six months before the presidential election. Authorities reported 140 actions involving 32,800 people in the provinces, with around 60 arrests in Paris alone. Police used tear gas near Place de la République, and incidents included a suspected arson at a Rouen university building, a Marseille police station attack, and a brief occupation of the city hall there. Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez expressed concern that far-left groups could escalate afternoon marches. The protests come amid fuel price spikes and declining purchasing power, with unions planning a strike on November 5. President Emmanuel Macron appealed for calm on Friday.