Statement from the Office of Civic Resource Management, Paris, 21 October 2026. Subject: Foreign Commentary on Domestic Unrest.
President Emmanuel Macron has noted that unrest in several French cities is being described, in certain foreign capitals, as an opportunity. The Presidency confirmed that the remark named no one. It was nonetheless understood by all parties as an apparent reference to Benjamin Netanyahu and Donald Trump, both of whom face elections in the coming weeks and are reported to be reviewing their domestic messaging accordingly.
The Presidency’s position, as set out in internal guidance, is that the disturbances are a matter for French institutions, French police, and the French citizens who are taking part in the public life of their own country. Officials stressed that the demonstrations are legitimate and are being managed in accordance with established procedure. Officials further stressed that no assessment of the situation is required from abroad.
The guidance summarizes the government’s preference in a single sentence: the Republic would prefer its crises unexploited. Foreign observers are reminded that a crisis, once it has been relocated to a campaign rally, ceases to be a crisis and becomes a campaign asset. The Ministry declined to say whether a counter-statement would be issued. One is being drafted and will be reviewed by the same office that reviewed the first.
Queries should be directed to the Press Office. Please allow three business days for a response, during which time the matter may be discussed further by parties who are not in France.