Emmanuel Macron attributes French protests to Iran tensions

French President Emmanuel Macron has identified geopolitical tensions involving Iran as a primary driver behind the current purchasing power crisis and widespread protests in France. In an interview with journalist Hugo Decroix, Macron stated that the core causes of the social movement are the war against Iran, the potential blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, and the resulting increase in fuel prices.

Macron distinguished these protests from previous social movements, noting they are not driven by tax increases, specific government decisions, or pension reforms. He characterized some demonstrators as individuals seeking to create disorder and emphasized the necessity of maintaining public order.

The President also addressed the violence of the unrest, describing horrific injuries sustained by young police officers. He called for calm from both sides and defended his administration against accusations of fascism, asserting that France possesses a stronger and more independent military than it did a decade ago.