French prime minister warns against escalating school protests after 164 arrests

French Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu has cautioned against further escalation of nationwide student demonstrations, calling potential intensification "irresponsible." His remarks followed the arrest of 164 individuals on Monday as teenagers continued to blockade secondary schools across France.

The wave of protests initially erupted in Paris before spreading to other regions. Students have voiced frustration over deteriorating educational conditions, specifically highlighting severe teacher shortages and overcrowded classrooms. Demonstrators have used barricades to disrupt access to multiple educational institutions for several consecutive days. Government officials expressed concern over reports of violent incidents and public disruption linked to the blockades, while student groups demand immediate government action to address systemic staffing issues in public education.

Sources: BBC News