Nearly 600,000 protesters march across France in largest demonstration of the year

Nearly 600,000 protesters took to the streets across France on Thursday, marking the largest day of demonstrations since unrest began in September, according to the Interior Ministry. The government has mobilized around 70,000 police officers nationwide to prevent a repeat of October's riots. The ministry's earlier estimate of 270,000 protesters excluded Paris, where a march began in the afternoon. Authorities are working to reduce tensions after October 17 riots and looting damaged shops and public buildings, drawing criticism of President Macron's crisis management. Major unions representing students, teachers, postal workers, doctors, and transport staff called the national strike. About 13% of school staff and 4% of hospital workers participated, with roughly 40% of scheduled trains canceled, though some cancellations were due to equipment issues.