Protests by French Farmers Lead to Arrests at Rungis Food Market in Paris

A large group of farmers who gathered at a food market near Paris to protest for better conditions and pay have been arrested, escalating tensions. The French government had warned that any disruption at the Rungis food distribution hub, which supplies food to 12 million people, would be unacceptable. The police reported that 91 farmers are currently in custody. The farmers' objective was to prevent food deliveries from reaching supermarkets. Rungis, known as "the belly of Paris," is one of the world's largest markets for fresh produce. The protesters caused damage after entering the storage area of the market but were eventually removed by security forces. Authorities have emphasized that disturbances to public order will not be tolerated. Prior to their arrival, police units were deployed along the A6 motorway leading to the market, and checkpoints were set up. Meanwhile, convoys of farmers' tractors have been blocking major roads leading into Paris as part of a wider farming demonstration in Europe. The protests have presented a challenge for Prime Minister Gabriel Attal, who took office three weeks ago. The prime minister has promised to announce new support measures in the coming days.