French Prime Minister Announces More Curfews After Calm Night Follows Riots

French Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu stated on Tuesday that new curfews would be imposed where necessary, with local authorities coordinating with mayors to decide.

He credited targeted curfews with helping maintain calm overnight into Tuesday, following days of widespread unrest. Police confirmed Monday night passed without major incidents across France. Curfews were in effect in parts of Paris, including Place de la République and Les Halles, and in cities such as Lyon, Marseille, Nice, and Lille. Some restrictions, like those in Lille and Nice, specifically applied to minors.

Over the past weekend, more than 2,000 people were arrested, with some reports citing 2,400 or 2,500 arrests. At least two deaths and reports of serious injuries, including two people who lost their hands, occurred. More than 3,000 businesses were damaged or ransacked, and Limoges Town Hall was set on fire. The unrest escalated from demonstrations that began in September with students protesting school conditions, expanding into a broader movement against rising living costs, high gas prices, and underinvestment in public services.

Over 500,000 people participated in peaceful rallies on October 17, but pockets of violence erupted. Criticism has mounted over President Emmanuel Macron's decision to embark on a three-day tour of the Middle East during the riots. Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez offered his resignation, which Macron declined. Amnesty International condemned French police for using what it called unnecessary and disproportionate force. Demonstrators have called for further protests this Saturday, though France's main trade unions have not backed the call.