France's Streets Echo with Voices Against Austerity

Amid political tensions, widespread protests engulfed France, with citizens opposing budget cuts and demanding wealthier taxations. Key unions are pressuring new Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu to reconsider proposed austerity measures. Tensions rise as parliament debates the upcoming budget and economic inequalities face the nation.

Protesters flooded over 200 French towns and cities on Thursday, voicing opposition to spending cuts and demanding that higher taxes be imposed on the wealthy.

In Paris, a substantial crowd of workers, retirees, and students embarked on a march from Place d'Italie. The iconic Eiffel Tower was inaccessible to tourists, shut in solidarity with the strikes.

France's principal unions called the nationwide strike, marking another wave of unrest amidst heightened political discussions and budget deliberations. The unions urged Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu to reassess budget proposals inherited from his predecessor, which would authorize welfare freezes and austerity measures perceived as detrimental to the middle class.

(With inputs from agencies.)