Fireworks and tear gas as protesters and riot police clash in Paris

Tear gas and water cannons were deployed by French police after a mass march turned violent in Paris, as thousands rallied against school funding and rising living costs. The march, which began peacefully a week earlier, saw masked protesters throw objects and fireworks at officers, prompting the use of chemical agents and water jets.

Police made nearly 1,000 arrests nationwide. The Interior Ministry estimated 410,000 participants, while the CGT union predicted nearly 800,000. The unrest is testing President Emmanuel Macron's authority as he nears the end of his presidency and prepares for elections in May where the far-right National Rally party has gained momentum.

In Marseille, 17,000 people protested, while the CGT estimated 100,000. Shops in Paris boarded up their windows and museums closed as authorities worried about potential damage.