Clashes erupt in France as ‘Black Thursday’ protests sweep the nation
- 5, 2026, 10:56 AM ESTPARIS — Riot police clashed with protesters in Lyon on Thursday as a nationwide public sector strike tapped into growing anger over deteriorating services and the rising cost of living.
- Paris’ iconic Eiffel Tower was closed because of the strike.
- Officers clad in black helmets and protective clothing charged at crowds in Lyon after the demonstrations against rising living costs and in support of the high school protest movement turned violent and fires were set in the streets.
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- 5, 2026, 10:56 AM ESTPARIS — Riot police clashed with protesters in Lyon on Thursday as a nationwide public sector strike tapped into growing anger over deteriorating services and the rising cost of living.
- Paris’ iconic Eiffel Tower was closed because of the strike.
- Officers clad in black helmets and protective clothing charged at crowds in Lyon after the demonstrations against rising living costs and in support of the high school protest movement turned violent and fires were set in the streets.
Sources: NBC News