French protests: Riot police fire tear gas as town hall invaded
Riot police fired tear gas and used water cannons across France on Saturday as tens of thousands protested against the cost of living, rising fuel prices, and public services, with over 160 arrests made nationwide. In Paris, police deployed water cannons in Place de la République, while in Marseille protesters invaded a town hall and attacked a bank, and in Lyon a tourist office was set ablaze. President Emmanuel Macron appealed for calm and respect for property. The demonstrations follow weeks of student protests over the education system, with unions, students, and yellow vest activists uniting in over 600 planned marches. Police reported 150 arrests in Paris primarily for carrying weapons or prohibited protective gear.