Macron: Prefects to act after violent cost-of-living protests in Paris, Marseille

President Emmanuel Macron announced that prefects will make decisions to protect French cities following violent clashes and looting that occurred during nationwide cost-of-living protests on October 17. He vowed to be "intractable" toward rioters, stating that those who looted must repay and face justice. The protests drew hundreds of thousands of demonstrators but were marred by rare scenes of chaos, with "casseurs" engaging in pillaging and vandalism in cities including Paris, Marseille, and Limoges. Macron condemned the violence, expressed support for police and affected businesses, and announced government meetings to develop concrete proposals for youth. Political leaders reacted sharply, with some calling for a state of emergency and others criticizing the government's handling of the protests. An investigation into the security strategy and potential intelligence failures has been proposed, while mayors of affected cities demand meetings with the Prime Minister.