France bans some protests after riots as Macron blames far-left groups

French authorities banned protests in parts of Paris and other cities on Thursday after weekend riots, as President Emmanuel Macron blamed far-left groups. The Paris Police Prefecture barred demonstrations until 8pm near the Elysee Palace, both houses of parliament, main train stations and looted downtown areas. Protests were also barred in Lyon, Lille and Grenoble. Justice Minister Gerald Darmanin said at least 2,700 people were detained, 217 convicted and jailed, and 1,000 were being prosecuted. Macron called Saturday's acts seditious and aimed at toppling the Republic. He said protests sought by groups without legitimate authority would be banned, while prefects would examine union requests. More than half a million people had marched Saturday over school conditions and living costs.

Right-leaning outlets differ in focus. The Washington Examiner stresses Macron's Gulf trip, a diesel deal and government reports blaming La France Insoumise; Fox News opens with a resident's account of a mob attack and cites Reuters and AP. Alternative outlet Al Jazeera leads with the bans, police and Darmanin's arrest figures. The New York Times stresses Macron's aim of calm. Fox dates the Lyon ban to Saturday; Al Jazeera says Thursday.