French school protests hit 730 schools as activists call for new rallies

Student protests continue across France, with demonstrators setting fires and throwing objects at police, who responded with tear gas. Activists called for new rallies on October 2 amid escalating demands for improved educational conditions. The government acknowledged students' right to protest but condemned violence against officers. In La Ciotat, a teacher was doused with gasoline and assaulted, while a young man in Tours lost vision in his right eye. Unions urged a new gathering on October 6. The movement, which began in Paris, has spread nationwide, with students blocking school access over long class hours, poor classroom conditions, and teacher shortages. Education Minister Philippe Jéffrey reported 735 of 3,700 schools affected, down 30 percent, with arrests reaching 1,747.