France Deploys 70,000 Security Personnel Ahead of Expected Protests

TEHRAN, Oct 30 (OPA) — French authorities are bracing for widespread unrest as Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez designated the upcoming Saturday as a day of high security risk. The government has mobilized 70,000 police and gendarmes to maintain public order across the country, citing intelligence regarding planned protests.

Nuñez confirmed the deployment during a press briefing, emphasizing that the scale of the operation is necessary to prevent potential violence and property damage. The security forces will be concentrated in major urban centers and areas identified as potential flashpoints for civil disobedience.

This deployment follows a period of heightened social tension in France, where various groups have mobilized against government policies. The Interior Ministry has frequently utilized large-scale police presence to manage demonstrations since the start of 2026, aiming to balance the right to protest with the maintenance of public safety.

Authorities remain on high alert as the scheduled protest dates approach. The government has not ruled out further security measures if the situation escalates, with local prefects granted the authority to implement additional restrictions on movement or gatherings in specific regions if deemed necessary.