The "belt-tightening" protests turned France into a battlefield: 181 arrests, 18 injured.

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18.09.2025 22:12

On September 8, in response to the budget cut plan of François Bayrou's government, which failed to gain a vote of confidence in France, the "Let's Stop Everything" protests took place today across the country with significant participation. In the demonstrations, where 80,000 security personnel were deployed, tensions occasionally rose between the police and protesters. In the capital, Paris, approximately 181 people were detained, and 18 others were injured.

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Protests against the government's budget cuts in France continue under the slogan "Let's Block Everything".

"THOUSANDS OF 'RADICAL ELEMENTS' PLANNING VIOLENT ACTIONS BY INFILTRATING THE PROCESSIONS"

Paris Police Chief Laurent Nunez called on shopkeepers to keep their businesses closed ahead of the protests and warned the public about potential violent incidents. Nunez stated that according to intelligence reports, "hundreds, even thousands of radical elements" are planning to infiltrate the processions and engage in violent actions. Police Chief Nunez indicated that security forces have been deployed at strategic points in the city for this purpose.

Protests Against Budget Cuts in France: 110 Detentions

80 THOUSAND SECURITY PERSONNEL DEPLOYED

The French government deployed 80,000 security personnel to ensure safety during the demonstrations. In Paris, where intense measures have been taken against the escalation of protests, 24 Centaure-type armored vehicles and 10 water cannon vehicles are also on standby. French Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau stated that clear instructions have been given to security forces, saying, "If there is a blockage, it will be removed immediately. Quick intervention will occur the moment property or life is endangered."

Protests Against Budget Cuts in France: 110 Detentions

"INTERVENTION WILL OCCUR THE MOMENT PROPERTY OR LIFE IS ENDANGERED"

Authorities reported that streets and squares have been cordoned off by police due to concerns that various groups participating in the demonstration may specifically target shops and businesses. Community intervention vehicles belonging to the French gendarmerie have also been dispatched to the protest area.

Protests Against Budget Cuts in France: 110 Detentions

"WILL OUTDO THE SEPTEMBER 10 PROTESTS"

Government officials predict that today's protests will surpass the "Let's Block Everything" protests on September 10, during which 675 people were detained. Authorities announced that 800,000 people are expected to participate in protests occurring at 250 different locations across France. Statements from unions and security authorities also indicated agreement with the government that tensions would be high.

Protests Against Budget Cuts in France: 110 Detentions

181 DETENTIONS, 18 INJURED

During the protests in the capital Paris, at least 20 people were arrested in clashes between police and demonstrators, while the total number of detentions nationwide reached approximately 181. Additionally, it was reported that 18 protesters were injured.

Protests Against Budget Cuts in France: 110 Detentions

SLOGANS AGAINST MACRON AND ISRAEL'S OCCUPATION OF GAZA

Starting at 14:00 local time from Bastille Square in Paris, various groups among the crowd demanded the resignation of French President Emmanuel Macron. Protesters also chanted slogans against Israel's occupation of the city of Gaza.

Protests Against Budget Cuts in France: 110 Detentions

LIFE IN FRANCE HAS COME TO A STANDSTILL

The strikes and protests have brought life to a standstill in many sectors in France. A large number of train services have been canceled, and the Paris metro only operated during peak hours. Services were not provided on three automatic lines. Many primary school teachers and high school students also participated in the strike, leading to interruptions in education at schools. The French Ministry of Education announced that barricades were set up in more than 70 schools, both fully and partially. Additionally, 18,000 out of 20,000 pharmacies across the country also closed their shutters. Protests and strikes involving workers from the energy sector have also begun at natural gas storage facilities, liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminals, and nuclear power plants.

Protests Against Budget Cuts in France: 110 Detentions

FRANÇOIS BAYROU WAS REMOVED FROM OFFICE

François Bayrou, the predecessor of French Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu, was removed from office in parliament last week after announcing a budget tightening plan of 44 billion euros. New Prime Minister Lecornu has not yet disclosed what he will do with Bayrou's budget plans, but he has signaled that he is open to compromise.



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