‘Block Everything’: Paris’ Eiffel Tower closed amid nationwide protests

France experienced widespread strikes and protests on Thursday, disrupting daily life and closing the Eiffel Tower. Thousands marched across 200 cities, demanding higher taxes on the wealthy and opposing proposed spending cuts. Unions are pressuring new Prime Minister Lecornu to abandon austerity measures. While turnout was lower than last month, the demonstrations highlight significant social anger ahead of budget discussions.