Macron condemns October 17 violence, vows transparency on police tactics

French President Emmanuel Macron addressed the nation on Sunday following violent clashes on October 17, expressing collective feelings of "anger and shame" over the unrest. Macron condemned "insurgents from far-left fringe groups, joined by numerous delinquents" for engaging in "unbridled violence," while distinguishing them from protesters with "legitimate demands." He promised transparency on police tactics, demanded answers from Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez, and warned that prefects may ban certain gatherings. The violence resulted in 2,397 arrests and 997 injured officers. Opposition figures reacted sharply, with Bruno Retailleau demanding a state of emergency and Marine Le Pen citing a "deep crisis of confidence." Clashes continued Sunday at Place de la République, while Macron maintained his planned Middle East trip.