Macron convenes intelligence services after protests, two days before new demonstrations

French President Emmanuel Macron convened a security meeting with all intelligence services at the Élysée Palace on Thursday, amid criticism over his handling of October 17 protests and two days before new demonstrations. Macron demanded firmness, warning "the hand must not tremble at the top of the state." The government seeks to reduce political tension following violent episodes during the protests, while preparing security arrangements for the October 24 mobilization. Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez will present operational details Thursday, and Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu will meet political party representatives at Matignon, including intelligence officials and security commanders. Several parties criticized the invitation, with far-right National Rally leaders Marine Le Pen and Jordan Bardella absent, along with Édouard Philippe's Horizons and François Bayrou's MoDem. Lecornu will also meet mayors of Paris, Lyon, and Marseille, cities hit by violence, to reassure local authorities before upcoming protests.