France experiences widespread looting and violence during protests

France has been gripped by severe unrest following protests against the rising cost of living. The demonstrations, which took place across several major cities including Paris and Marseille, escalated into widespread looting, arson, and property destruction.

In Marseille, the i-Run concept store was completely devastated, with footage showing broken storefronts and ransacked interiors. Authorities reported that nearly 2,400 people were arrested on a single Saturday. The French government has attributed much of the violence to individuals from the left-wing scene and young men from the suburbs (banlieues).

Former French World Cup champion Emmanuel Petit has publicly condemned the violence in a series of social media videos. Petit expressed deep anger toward the rioters, distinguishing them from peaceful protesters, and criticized the perceived lack of institutional firmness. He also voiced solidarity with business owners and law enforcement officers affected by the chaos.