Macron Warns Against Protest Chaos, Rebukes Foreign Leaders Over Rhetoric

French president condemns remarks by foreign leaders seeking to exploit unrest for political gain.

Published On 21 Oct 202621 Oct 2026

French President Emmanuel Macron stated that individuals intending to incite chaos during demonstrations against rising living costs will not be permitted to do so.

Addressing reporters in Doha following his meeting with Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Macron said he would consult with French intelligence agencies ahead of protests scheduled for Saturday.

He asserted there had been no visible foreign interference in the events themselves, but cautioned that foreign actors had manipulated information in the aftermath.

Over half a million people assembled across France on Saturday to demand improved school conditions and protest high living expenses. At least 2,500 individuals were arrested after riots erupted in some areas, with businesses looted.

Macron insisted he would implement all necessary measures to restore what he described as calm, security, and order.

The French president also denounced unacceptable and ill-advised comments from numerous figures, including foreign leaders.

Macron said those leaders were commenting on the French protests to mobilize their own political bases. His remarks appeared to target U.S. President Donald Trump, who claimed the demonstrations were driven by immigration concerns.

The criticism also seemed directed at Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who claimed France had been overwhelmed by an invasion of extremist Islam. Neither Trump nor Netanyahu provided evidence for their assertions.

On Wednesday, France’s Yellow Vest movement submitted plans for a major protest in Paris this weekend, after a second consecutive night of curfews passed without significant incidents.

Macron said a state of emergency was not currently warranted, but Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu pledged to bolster security at future demonstrations. Lecornu announced a massive deployment of police supported by the military.

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