Mass protests in France spiral into worst riots in years; 1,200 arrested, 150 cops injured

Mass protests across France on Saturday against rising living costs and declining public services escalated into the worst riots in years, with 1,200 arrested and 150 police officers injured. Violence included arson and looting in Paris, Limoges, Marseille, and Lyon. Prime Minister Lecornu blamed the 'ultra-left' and criminals, while President Macron vowed to prosecute perpetrators. Smaller protests occurred in Belgium, Portugal, Italy, and Albania.

Mass protests across France on Saturday against rising living costs and declining public services spiraled into the worst riots in years, with 1,200 arrested and 150 police officers injured. Violence erupted in multiple cities: Limoges city hall was set ablaze, Marseille city hall was defaced with anarchic graffiti, and Lyon's tourist office was torched. Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu blamed the unrest on the 'ultra-left' and criminals, stating the government would not be intimidated. President Emmanuel Macron vowed to prosecute those responsible, calling them 'sowers of chaos.' Interior Minister Laurent Nunez reported 550,000 participants, while the CGT union estimated 800,000. Smaller protests occurred in Belgium, Portugal, Italy, and Albania. The movement began in Paris high schools over teacher shortages and inequality. The article notes pro-Palestinian messages among graffiti. Police tactics have drawn criticism after a teenager lost a hand from a stun grenade. The final paragraphs shift to a direct appeal for reader donations to support The Times of Israel's journalism.