Protesters trample, burn ‘Israeli’ flag at massive Lyon protest

• Footage showed demonstrators stomping on the flags before setting them alight at the Jean-Macé tram stop, as bystanders applauded.
• The demonstration marked the third consecutive weekend of protests over rising living costs, with demands for price freezes, wage increases and €10 billion in additional education funding.

Protesters trampled and set fire to an ‘Israeli’ flag during a mass demonstration in the French city of Lyon on Saturday, as thousands took to the streets for a third consecutive weekend of protests over rising living costs and government policies.

Footage circulating on social media showed demonstrators placing US and ‘Israeli’ flags on top of a tram shelter at the Jean-Macé stop before stomping on them and setting them alight. The scene unfolded amid chants condemning ‘Israel’, with people nearby applauding as the flags burned.

The flag burning took place during a broader mobilisation demanding price freezes, higher wages and €10 billion in additional funding for education. Demonstrators also called for measures to address declining purchasing power and the rising cost of everyday necessities.

The rally, which had been authorised by authorities, remained largely festive for much of the march, with participants wearing Halloween costumes and playing music. However, tensions escalated towards its conclusion, when masked individuals repprtedly damaged property and threw fireworks and other projectiles towards police.

Officers responded with tear gas, while authorities reported six arrests and one injury in Lyon.

The demonstrations were not confined to the city. Protests also took place in Paris and other parts of France, with approximately 70,000 people reportedly participating in the capital, as the nationwide mobilization entered its third weekend.

The movement has brought together students, trade unions and other social groups, initially mobilising around deteriorating conditions in schools, teacher shortages and education funding before expanding into wider demands over economic inequality, public services and the cost of living.

Organizers have indicated that further demonstrations and actions are expected in the coming days.

Read more: Clashes erupt between 'Israeli' police, Haredi protesters near Tel Aviv