Eiffel Tower closed amid nationwide strikes held across France against austerity

France: Thousands of people, including workers, retirees, and students, joined strikes and protests in more than 200 French cities. Protesters protested against spending cuts and demanded higher taxes on the wealthy. The Eiffel Tower in the capital, Paris, was also closed due to the strike.

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Large-scale strikes and protests took place in France on Thursday. Protesters protested against spending cuts and demanded higher taxes on the wealthy. The famous Eiffel Tower in the capital, Paris, was also closed during this period.

Protests in more than 200 cities

Thousands of workers, retirees, and students took to the streets in more than 200 French cities and towns. In Paris, protesters began their march from Place d'Italie. The Eiffel Tower administration issued a statement stating that the monument had been closed to tourists due to the strike.

Union-led protests

This nationwide strike has been called by France's major unions. It is the latest in a series of protests amid political turmoil and debate over the budget that has been ongoing since last month. Unions say the government should abandon the previous prime minister's budget proposals, which included curbs on social welfare programs and spending cuts.

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Unions warn that such measures will further weaken the purchasing power of low- and middle-income individuals. They are demanding tax increases on the wealthy.

Pressure on the New Government

Sébastien Lecornu, who became prime minister last month, has not yet detailed his budget or announced his cabinet team. A government is expected to be formed in the coming days, and the budget bill will be debated in parliament by the end of the year.