On 2026-10-17, protests erupted across France against rising fuel prices and declining purchasing power. The demonstrations were rooted in the cost of living crisis, a theme that would dominate the days that followed.
By the next day, mass protests and unrest were reported throughout the country on 2026-10-18. Participation swelled to around 550,000 people nationwide, with roughly 110,000 gathered in Paris. Amid the demonstrations, scenes of violence and looting emerged, leading to 2,000 arrests and 2,000 protesters detained.
JUST IN: 🇫🇷🇮🇷French President Emmanuel Macron says people are protesting because of Trump’s war on Iran and heigh oil prices https://t.co/WCCem6JHlK
Also on 2026-10-18, Emmanuel Macron addressed the nation. He opened by saying, "I am addressing you at an extremely serious moment," framing the situation as grave. He later added, "Looking at these images, we have all asked ourselves: what was going through their minds? How can French people do this to France?" Macron condemned the violence and emphasized the need for transparency in the actions of security forces. He also called for a meeting with political parties to collectively condemn violence.
Following his address, Macron ordered a review of intelligence and police preparedness on the same day, 2026-10-18.
Following his address, Macron ordered a review of intelligence and police preparedness on the same day, 2026-10-18. He then announced a series of measures aimed at addressing the ongoing protests and disturbances. Among these, he demanded that the government take steps to prevent future unrest and called for political parties and unions to condemn any violence. Macron urged learning from the events, saying, "We need to learn the lessons from this and take measures to prevent such events in the future."
Emmanuel Macron vowed legal action against those responsible for violence during #protests across #France on Saturday. Meanwhile, he said the gov't would work with students, teachers, trade unions, employers' organizations and officials to develop responses to people's concerns. https://t.co/YeCiMtcGXy
The president’s remarks drew varied responses. Jean-Luc Melenchon declared, "Only Macron bears the responsibility for the current situation," adopting a supportive stance toward the protesters’ grievances. Jordan Bardella countered, saying, "I expect Emmanuel Macron to apologize and step down," reflecting a critical stance.
🇫🇷 BREAKING: Emmanuel Macron has blamed the riots in France on President Trump In latest address on French TV, Macron claimed the rioters are protesting because of the high oil prices caused by Trump's war in Iran. He refused to take responsibility for pushing mass migration. https://t.co/5wTOTdcGTG