France Deploys 70,000 Police Amid Anticipation of Third Week of Protests

France is mobilizing 70,000 police officers nationwide in anticipation of a third week of significant anti-government protests. The demonstrations, which have previously involved looting and property damage, are expected to resume on Saturday, coinciding with Halloween.

Interior Minister Laurent Nunez stated that "Everyone is on deck to ensure an extremely firm response to any trouble." Authorities are monitoring approximately 150 planned gatherings across the country. In Paris, a planned march between the Place de la République and the Place de la Bastille has been banned by the court and rerouted to the city's outskirts.

The protests, initially sparked by concerns over educational reform and school conditions, have broadened to encompass economic anxieties, rising fuel prices, and the general cost of living. Despite government promises of reform and efforts to reduce fuel costs, these measures have not appeased the demonstrators.

Retailers have reported losses exceeding $1 billion due to looting and property damage, with some estimates doubling that figure when accounting for lost revenue. Luxury boutiques in Paris, including Hermes and Louis Vuitton, have been among the targeted establishments, with many shopfronts now boarded up.

In response to the unrest, the French government is developing legislation to hold rioters financially accountable for property damage, with potential penalties of up to €10,000 ($11,000).

The U.S. Embassy in France has issued a travel advisory, urging visitors to avoid areas with large gatherings. Protesters, some of whom may use Halloween masks to obscure their identities, are expected to continue their demonstrations despite the heavy police presence.