After a massive rave party in northwestern France, the Macron government has decided to impose night curfew in 15 northeastern and southeastern areas which will be starting from 6 pm, instead of 8 pm every night.

France imposes night curfew in 15 regions to contain COVID-19 cases

Dozens of&nbsp;cars were set on fire&nbsp;across Strasbourg, France after groups of vandals flouted an 8 pm curfew order&nbsp;as New Year’s Eve celebrations once again turned violent, the French Interior Ministry said on Friday.

Several police officers and firefighters were injured, and 40 vandals, some of them minors, were arrested.

According to Annie Bregal, Bas-Rhin’s director of public security&nbsp;in Strasbourg, ''In addition to a nationwide 8 pm curfew and a number of street closures in Strasbourg, fireworks had been banned for the entire month of December. Local police also set up “mobile forces” in “strategic locations” across the city''.

Smoldering cars, as well as those fully engulfed in flames, were seen in videos posted to social media, in some cases setting off loud blasts as the vehicles’ fuel ignited.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Strasbourg?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Strasbourg</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/France?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#France</a> 
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Every New Year’s Eve nervous car owners across France cross their fingers in the hope they can start the New Year with their vehicle intact.

That’s because of a longstanding French tradition that sees youths in certain parts of cities torching scores of cars.

Car burnings are regular occurrences in poor suburbs that ring France’s big cities, but the arson is especially prevalent during New Year’s Eve revelry.

The custom of setting vehicles alight on New Year's Eve reportedly began in the east of the country, around Strasbourg, in the 1990s, in the city's poorer neighbourhoods.

It was then quickly adopted by youths in cities across the country.

Cars are often set ablaze whenever there is an outbreak of social disorder, as seen in the 2005 riots when hundreds of vehicles were torched.

Dozens of cars were set on fire across Strasbourg, France after groups of vandals flouted an 8 pm curfew order as New Year’s Eve celebrations once again turned violent, the French Interior Ministry said on Friday.

Dozens of cars were set on fire across Strasbourg, France after groups of vandals flouted an 8 pm curfew order as New Year’s Eve celebrations once again turned violent, the French Interior Ministry said on Friday. Several police officers and firefighters were injured, and 40 vandals, some of them minors, were arrested. According to Annie Bregal, Bas-Rhin’s director of public security in Strasbourg, ''In addition to a nationwide 8 pm curfew and a number of street closures in Strasbourg, fireworks had been banned for the entire month of December. Local police also set up “mobile forces” in “strategic locations” across the city''. Smoldering cars, as well as those fully engulfed in flames, were seen in videos posted to social media, in some cases setting off loud blasts as the vehicles’ fuel ignited. #Strasbourg #France Demonstrations turned violent as rioters set fire to approximately 30 vehicles in Strasbourg, France. pic.twitter.com/cZ66fdP4bw — Shane B. Murphy (@shanermurph) January 1, 2021 × Every New Year’s Eve nervous car owners across France cross their fingers in the hope they can start the New Year with their vehicle intact. That’s because of a longstanding French tradition that sees youths in certain parts of cities torching scores of cars. Car burnings are regular occurrences in poor suburbs that ring France’s big cities, but the arson is especially prevalent during New Year’s Eve revelry. The custom of setting vehicles alight on New Year's Eve reportedly began in the east of the country, around Strasbourg, in the 1990s, in the city's poorer neighbourhoods. It was then quickly adopted by youths in cities across the country. Cars are often set ablaze whenever there is an outbreak of social disorder, as seen in the 2005 riots when hundreds of vehicles were torched.

France: Dozens of cars torched on New Year’s Eve by rioters on violence spree

France had initially hoped to be able to lift many of its lockdown rules on December 15th - allowing people to travel to visit friends and family over the holidays.

French govt to impose a curfew from 8 pm to 6 am for 3 weeks

France is developing bionic soldiers resistant to pain with microchip-enhanced brain power and superior hearing.

The country's ethical committee of the armed forces ministry gave approval in order for France to keep up with countries which are already working on similar projects.&nbsp;

Research is also being done to create pills which will keep soldiers awake for long periods and surgery to improve their hearing.&nbsp;

Potential areas to be explored include implants to increase soldiers’ “cerebral capacity” and to make them immune to stress. Drugs to improve service member’s mental resilience in the event they were captured are also being considered.

French scientists are also looking to create implants which enable army headquarters to remotely track the location of soldiers.&nbsp;And they are also trying to devise drugs which will make soldiers resistant to pain or be able to tolerate being held in isolation.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The report warned that the French army could fall behind other countries which have already begun research into similar fields.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-intel-chief-says-china-has-created-biologically-enhanced-super-soldiers-347331">US intel chief says China has created biologically enhanced super soldiers</a>

Without enabling research into technologies such as these, the French armed forces would be at a disadvantage compared to other countries’ militaries, the report added.

However, the committee did lay out an ethical framework for hypothetical interventions, saying they should not jeopardise soldiers’ “humanity” and their ability to reintegrate into civilian life.

Florence Parly, the French armed forces minister, who asked the committee to consider the issue of “augmented” soldiers in January, said that the “invasive” modifications were not part of the&nbsp;army’s current plans.

<form action-xhr="/internal-api/newsletter-component/submit/lite" amp-access="NOT loggedIn" custom-validation-reporting="interact-and-submit" id="reg-lite-form" method="post" novalidate="" on="valid:AMP.setState({liteRegValid: false});invalid:AMP.setState({liteRegValid: true})" target="_top" verify-xhr="/internal-api/newsletter-component/verify">Earlier,&nbsp;US director of national intelligence, John Ratcliffe, said that China is already trying to find ways to make artificially enhanced soldiers and has already started testing.</form>

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France is developing bionic soldiers resistant to pain with microchip-enhanced brain power and superior hearing. The country's ethical committee of the armed forces ministry gave approval in order for France to keep up with countries which are already working on similar projects.

France is developing bionic soldiers resistant to pain with microchip-enhanced brain power and superior hearing. The country's ethical committee of the armed forces ministry gave approval in order for France to keep up with countries which are already working on similar projects. Research is also being done to create pills which will keep soldiers awake for long periods and surgery to improve their hearing. Potential areas to be explored include implants to increase soldiers’ “cerebral capacity” and to make them immune to stress. Drugs to improve service member’s mental resilience in the event they were captured are also being considered. French scientists are also looking to create implants which enable army headquarters to remotely track the location of soldiers. And they are also trying to devise drugs which will make soldiers resistant to pain or be able to tolerate being held in isolation. The report warned that the French army could fall behind other countries which have already begun research into similar fields. Also read: US intel chief says China has created biologically enhanced super soldiers Without enabling research into technologies such as these, the French armed forces would be at a disadvantage compared to other countries’ militaries, the report added. However, the committee did lay out an ethical framework for hypothetical interventions, saying they should not jeopardise soldiers’ “humanity” and their ability to reintegrate into civilian life. Florence Parly, the French armed forces minister, who asked the committee to consider the issue of “augmented” soldiers in January, said that the “invasive” modifications were not part of the army’s current plans. Earlier, US director of national intelligence, John Ratcliffe, said that China is already trying to find ways to make artificially enhanced soldiers and has already started testing.

France is developing bionic soldiers resistant to pain

French Prime Minister&nbsp;Jean Castex on Wednesday defended the anti-extremism bill combatting "radical Islamism" as the ''law of freedom''.

After a spate of attacks, which critics fear risks targeting all Muslims, France argues the legislation is needed to shore up the country's staunchly secular system but the plan has further stirred up social tensions over the consequences for Europe's largest Muslim community.

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"The enemy of the Republic is a political ideology called radical Islamism, which aims to divide the French among themselves," Prime Minister Jean Castex told Wednesday's edition of Le Monde.

France argues&nbsp;that rather than targeting Muslims the anti-extremism bill aims&nbsp;to "free Muslims from the growing grip of radical Islamism".

The legislation will be discussed at a cabinet meeting at the Elysee Palace with Castex announcing the outcome in the early afternoon.

It&nbsp;has&nbsp;been criticised by Muslim leaders including Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan while on Tuesday the US envoy on international religious freedom said he was concerned by the bill.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-gives-ultimatum-to-french-council-of-muslim-faith-344419">France gives ultimatum to French Council of Muslim Faith</a>

"There can be constructive engagements that I think can be helpful and not harmful," Ambassador Sam Brownback told reporters.

"When you get heavy-handed, the situation can get worse," he said.

'Strengthen republican values'

The text was originally titled the "anti-separatism" bill, using a term President Emmanuel Macron&nbsp;uses to describe ultra-conservative Muslims withdrawing from mainstream society.&nbsp;

Following criticism of that term, it is now called a "draft law to strengthen republican values", mostly secularism and freedom of expression.

The law was in the pipeline before the murder in October of Samuel Paty, a junior high school teacher who was attacked in the street and beheaded after showing cartoons of the Prophet Mohammed in a class.

But the killing, committed by an 18-year old Chechen after a virulent social media campaign against the teacher, gave fresh impetus to the bill, prompted the inclusion of the specific crimes of online hate speech and divulging personal information on the internet.

Paty's death is one in a string of jihadist-inspired attacks in France this year including a knife assault outside the former offices of the Charlie Hebdo satirical magazine and deadly stabbings at a church in the Mediterranean city of Nice.

The draft law sets out stricter criteria for authorising home schooling of children over three years old in a bid to prevent parents taking their children out of public schools and enrolling them in underground Islamic facilities.

Doctors, meanwhile, would be fined or jailed if they performed a virginity test on girls.

Polygamy is already outlawed in France, but the new law would also ban authorities from issuing residency papers to polygamous applicants.

It would also require city hall officials to interview couples separately prior to their wedding to make sure that they were not forced into marriage.

'Open provocation'

Macron has become a figure of hate in some Muslim countries, with some boycotting French products, after saying that the right to blaspheme would always be guaranteed in France and that Islam was "in crisis".

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has called the draft law an "open provocation", while scholars at Egypt's prestigious Sunni Islamic institution, Al-Azhar, called Macron's views "racist".

Macron has also been forced onto the defensive by critical headlines in influential English-language media, such as the Financial Times and New York Times.

Muslims in France -- the former colonies of which include predominantly Muslim countries in north and west Africa as well as the Middle East -- are estimated at nearly four million, about six percent of the population.

Once, as is expected, the cabinet backs the draft law, it heads to parliament at the start of next year for what promises to be a heated debate.

France's state council, which advises the government and the National Assembly on future laws, has already signalled that some parts of the bill, especially on education, may clash with the principle of freedom of choice enshrined in the French constitution.

&nbsp;

French Prime Minister Jean Castex on Wednesday defended the anti-extremism bill combatting "radical Islamism" as the ''law of freedom''. After a spate of attacks, which critics fear risks targeting all Muslims, France argues the legislation is needed to shore up the country's staunchly secular system but the plan has further stirred up social tensions over the consequences for Europe's largest Muslim community.

French Prime Minister Jean Castex on Wednesday defended the anti-extremism bill combatting "radical Islamism" as the ''law of freedom''. After a spate of attacks, which critics fear risks targeting all Muslims, France argues the legislation is needed to shore up the country's staunchly secular system but the plan has further stirred up social tensions over the consequences for Europe's largest Muslim community. "The enemy of the Republic is a political ideology called radical Islamism, which aims to divide the French among themselves," Prime Minister Jean Castex told Wednesday's edition of Le Monde. France argues that rather than targeting Muslims the anti-extremism bill aims to "free Muslims from the growing grip of radical Islamism". The legislation will be discussed at a cabinet meeting at the Elysee Palace with Castex announcing the outcome in the early afternoon. It has been criticised by Muslim leaders including Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan while on Tuesday the US envoy on international religious freedom said he was concerned by the bill. Also read: France gives ultimatum to French Council of Muslim Faith "There can be constructive engagements that I think can be helpful and not harmful," Ambassador Sam Brownback told reporters. "When you get heavy-handed, the situation can get worse," he said. 'Strengthen republican values' The text was originally titled the "anti-separatism" bill, using a term President Emmanuel Macron uses to describe ultra-conservative Muslims withdrawing from mainstream society. Following criticism of that term, it is now called a "draft law to strengthen republican values", mostly secularism and freedom of expression. The law was in the pipeline before the murder in October of Samuel Paty, a junior high school teacher who was attacked in the street and beheaded after showing cartoons of the Prophet Mohammed in a class. But the killing, committed by an 18-year old Chechen after a virulent social media campaign against the teacher, gave fresh impetus to the bill, prompted the inclusion of the specific crimes of online hate speech and divulging personal information on the internet. Paty's death is one in a string of jihadist-inspired attacks in France this year including a knife assault outside the former offices of the Charlie Hebdo satirical magazine and deadly stabbings at a church in the Mediterranean city of Nice. The draft law sets out stricter criteria for authorising home schooling of children over three years old in a bid to prevent parents taking their children out of public schools and enrolling them in underground Islamic facilities. Doctors, meanwhile, would be fined or jailed if they performed a virginity test on girls. Polygamy is already outlawed in France, but the new law would also ban authorities from issuing residency papers to polygamous applicants. It would also require city hall officials to interview couples separately prior to their wedding to make sure that they were not forced into marriage. 'Open provocation' Macron has become a figure of hate in some Muslim countries, with some boycotting French products, after saying that the right to blaspheme would always be guaranteed in France and that Islam was "in crisis". Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has called the draft law an "open provocation", while scholars at Egypt's prestigious Sunni Islamic institution, Al-Azhar, called Macron's views "racist". Macron has also been forced onto the defensive by critical headlines in influential English-language media, such as the Financial Times and New York Times. Muslims in France -- the former colonies of which include predominantly Muslim countries in north and west Africa as well as the Middle East -- are estimated at nearly four million, about six percent of the population. Once, as is expected, the cabinet backs the draft law, it heads to parliament at the start of next year for what promises to be a heated debate. France's state council, which advises the government and the National Assembly on future laws, has already signalled that some parts of the bill, especially on education, may clash with the principle of freedom of choice enshrined in the French constitution.

Enemy of the Republic is political ideology called radical Islamism: French PM Castex

France will build a new nuclear-powered aircraft carrier to replace its Charles de Gaulle carrier by 2038, French President Emmanuel Macron announced Tuesday.

Macron framed the decision to use nuclear reactors to propel the future warship as part of France's climate strategy, stressing its lower emissions compared to diesel fuel used in other vessels.

Speaking at a nuclear facility in the Burgundy town of Le Creusot, he said "I have decided that the future aircraft carrier of our country and our Navy will be, like the Charles de Gaulle, nuclear powered

One of his advisers noted that having an aircraft carrier also helps France project its global influence. Only a few countries in the world maintain huge, costly vessels.

The new French aircraft carrier will be about 70,000 tons and 300 meters long (985ft), roughly 1.5 times the size of the Charles de Gaulle, which has been deployed for international military operations in Iraq and Syria in recent years, according to French presidential advisers.

Its catapults will be electro-magnetic, and American-made, and the ship will be designed to accommodate next-generation warplanes and serve until around 2080, the advisers said.

They didn't provide a price tag but French media estimate it will cost around 7 billion euros (8.4 billion US dollars).

Macron also pledged 500 million euros (605 million US dollars) in investment in the nuclear industry and a separate fund to modernise it and promised "progress" on the persistent problem of how to permanently get rid of nuclear waste.

France&nbsp;has said it will cut its reliance on nuclear energy to 50% from 75% by 2035 and has yet to make a final decision on whether to build next-generation EPR nuclear reactors.

That is due by 2023, by which time state-controlled utility EDF's Flamanville 3 EPR project should be up and running, but Macron said he wanted to make a big push on preparations by next year.

"The preparatory studies around the construction of new reactors are key and I want them to continue and be wrapped up in the coming months," Macron said during a visit to nuclear components maker Framatome, part of EDF.

Nuclear reactors provide the majority of France's electricity, but many reactors are aging and delays have dogged new-generation reactors.

Macron, who is co-hosting a global video summit on Saturday to mark the fifth anniversary of the Paris climate accord, said France also must do more to develop wind, solar, hydrogen and other renewable energies.

France will build a new nuclear-powered aircraft carrier to replace its Charles de Gaulle carrier by 2038, French President Emmanuel Macron announced Tuesday. Macron framed the decision to use nuclear reactors to propel the future warship as part of France's climate strategy, stressing its lower emissions compared to diesel fuel used in other vessels.

France will build a new nuclear-powered aircraft carrier to replace its Charles de Gaulle carrier by 2038, French President Emmanuel Macron announced Tuesday. Macron framed the decision to use nuclear reactors to propel the future warship as part of France's climate strategy, stressing its lower emissions compared to diesel fuel used in other vessels. Speaking at a nuclear facility in the Burgundy town of Le Creusot, he said "I have decided that the future aircraft carrier of our country and our Navy will be, like the Charles de Gaulle, nuclear powered One of his advisers noted that having an aircraft carrier also helps France project its global influence. Only a few countries in the world maintain huge, costly vessels. The new French aircraft carrier will be about 70,000 tons and 300 meters long (985ft), roughly 1.5 times the size of the Charles de Gaulle, which has been deployed for international military operations in Iraq and Syria in recent years, according to French presidential advisers. Its catapults will be electro-magnetic, and American-made, and the ship will be designed to accommodate next-generation warplanes and serve until around 2080, the advisers said. They didn't provide a price tag but French media estimate it will cost around 7 billion euros (8.4 billion US dollars). Macron also pledged 500 million euros (605 million US dollars) in investment in the nuclear industry and a separate fund to modernise it and promised "progress" on the persistent problem of how to permanently get rid of nuclear waste. France has said it will cut its reliance on nuclear energy to 50% from 75% by 2035 and has yet to make a final decision on whether to build next-generation EPR nuclear reactors. That is due by 2023, by which time state-controlled utility EDF's Flamanville 3 EPR project should be up and running, but Macron said he wanted to make a big push on preparations by next year. "The preparatory studies around the construction of new reactors are key and I want them to continue and be wrapped up in the coming months," Macron said during a visit to nuclear components maker Framatome, part of EDF. Nuclear reactors provide the majority of France's electricity, but many reactors are aging and delays have dogged new-generation reactors. Macron, who is co-hosting a global video summit on Saturday to mark the fifth anniversary of the Paris climate accord, said France also must do more to develop wind, solar, hydrogen and other renewable energies.

France to build nuclear-powered aircraft carrier, says Macron

This is a make-or-break moment for French President Emmanuel Macron. He is trying to transform France. He is facing protests at home and outside. Will Macron be able to set an example for the world or will he slip?

Gravitas: Macron's make or break moment

The practice is banned in countries such as Bangladesh, but legal in others such as the United States.

Your Story: Questions raised over French plan to ban virginity tests

France is split over plans to ban virginity testing, with some campaigners calling the procedure barbaric and others warning of violent repercussions for some Muslim women.

Women in at least 20 countries are subjected to virginity tests, sometimes by force, as families, lovers, or potential employers use them to assess their virtue, honour, or social value, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).

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In Europe, the tests are issued in Belgium, the Netherlands, Britain, Sweden, and Spain, according to the WHO.

Virginity tests in France are&nbsp;most commonly used by Muslims and also by some Roma families who want proof of virginity pre-wedlock.

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In picture: Women protest in France against&nbsp;virginity testing/Reuters

The United Nations says the test is painful, inaccurate, and a violation of human rights, with no place in modern society.

But not everyone agrees, with some experts predicting unintended fallout from France’s proposed ban, which is part of a wider Islamic separatism bill due in parliament next month.

Doctors say it could mean women paying excessive fees for illegal tests or risking violent repercussions from family members, partners, or putative in-laws if they lack proof.

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“Penalising doctors is to close the only door for patients, where they could have found help and advice,” said Ghada Hatem-Gantzer, a gynaecologist in Paris and chief medic at the Maison des Femmes, a local women’s violence shelter.

“It is undoubtedly promoting a black market for certificates that dubious pharmacies will charge dearly for,” she added.

Before issuing a virginity certificate, a doctor usually inspects a woman’s hymen – the thin tissue that may partially cover her vagina – checking for tears or measuring the opening.

It is not clear how many tests are carried out each year, but doctors say they mostly check teenaged girls or young women, often under family pressure.

“There is no data, either official or unofficial, on the number of requests for virginity certificates,” said Martine Hatchuel, another Paris-based gynaecologist.

“Personally I have around two to four requests per year…almost always very young girls brought by their mothers.”

Doctors say single women fear rejection if they cannot show a certificate to families where traditional gender expectations hold sway when it comes to sex before marriage.

“Their motivation is always: ‘it is my parents/my step family/my in-laws who demand it, if it were up to me I wouldn’t ask for anything,’” said Hatem-Gantzer.

But she said the girls and young women who came to her were unanimous in declaring: “‘I don’t want to stay an old maid.’”

Also read|<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/legitimising-violence-emmanuel-macron-slams-reports-calling-france-islamophobic-343406">&nbsp;'Legitimising violence': Emmanuel Macron slams reports calling France islamophobic</a>

Muslims

The French government does not collect such data but think tanks and statistical groups say France has Europe’s largest Muslim minority: about 5 million or 7-8 per cent&nbsp;of the population.

Virginity certificates can help protect women who are suspected of having illicit sex from possible retribution, said Liza Hammer of Collectif Nta Rajel, a French feminist collective for North African emigrees.

“If you want to deal with this issue then women must be taken care of, not prevented from having a piece of paper they need to save their lives,” she said.

Under draft legislation, President Emmanuel Macron is proposing a year in prison and a 15,000-euro ($17,875) fine for any medical professional who issues a virginity certificate.

The rules are part of legislation aimed at reinforcing secular values and fighting what Macron calls an “Islamist separatism” that he said threatens to overrun some communities.

France’s interior and health ministries were not available for comment.

Violent reprisals

While not in favour of the tests, doctors and women’s rights groups worry that some girls and women might fall victim to abuse without a certificate to attest to their virginity.

“In certain extreme situations, the only way out for women is to break up with their family or to turn to the virginity (testing) market,” the French abortion advice group ANCIC said in a statement.

“Professionals need to make the choice that seems the most ethical to them,” the association said.

In an open letter to a French newspaper, a group of 10 doctors called the tests barbaric, backward and sexist.

But they said that banning them could be still worse if doctors fear women might be at risk without their certification.

“To prevent that (test being carried out) would be a disservice to the cause of the patient,” they said.

Better education would do more than a ban to end traditional gender constraints, said ANCIC, the abortion group.

Punishing doctors does not address the root cause - fear and ignorance in Muslim communities, said the group of doctors.

Claudia Garcia-Moreno, the WHO’s lead on Violence against Women, agreed, saying “culturally sensitive” education must go hand in hand with any ban to prevent tests from going underground.

“It needs to include women and girls understanding their rights and protections,” she said.

For Hatem-Gantzer, who sees the fallout from virginity fights first hand at her Paris shelter, a ban will not quickly change such deeply-entrenched attitudes.

“Our only way out is to educate young people relentlessly and to meet their parents to convince them. It’s more tiring and expensive than banning, but it’s more effective,” she said.

France is split over plans to ban virginity testing, with some campaigners calling the procedure barbaric and others warning of violent repercussions for some Muslim women.

France is split over plans to ban virginity testing, with some campaigners calling the procedure barbaric and others warning of violent repercussions for some Muslim women. Women in at least 20 countries are subjected to virginity tests, sometimes by force, as families, lovers, or potential employers use them to assess their virtue, honour, or social value, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). In Europe, the tests are issued in Belgium, the Netherlands, Britain, Sweden, and Spain, according to the WHO. Virginity tests in France are most commonly used by Muslims and also by some Roma families who want proof of virginity pre-wedlock. In picture: Women protest in France against virginity testing/Reuters The United Nations says the test is painful, inaccurate, and a violation of human rights, with no place in modern society. But not everyone agrees, with some experts predicting unintended fallout from France’s proposed ban, which is part of a wider Islamic separatism bill due in parliament next month. Doctors say it could mean women paying excessive fees for illegal tests or risking violent repercussions from family members, partners, or putative in-laws if they lack proof. “Penalising doctors is to close the only door for patients, where they could have found help and advice,” said Ghada Hatem-Gantzer, a gynaecologist in Paris and chief medic at the Maison des Femmes, a local women’s violence shelter. “It is undoubtedly promoting a black market for certificates that dubious pharmacies will charge dearly for,” she added. Before issuing a virginity certificate, a doctor usually inspects a woman’s hymen – the thin tissue that may partially cover her vagina – checking for tears or measuring the opening. It is not clear how many tests are carried out each year, but doctors say they mostly check teenaged girls or young women, often under family pressure. “There is no data, either official or unofficial, on the number of requests for virginity certificates,” said Martine Hatchuel, another Paris-based gynaecologist. “Personally I have around two to four requests per year…almost always very young girls brought by their mothers.” Doctors say single women fear rejection if they cannot show a certificate to families where traditional gender expectations hold sway when it comes to sex before marriage. “Their motivation is always: ‘it is my parents/my step family/my in-laws who demand it, if it were up to me I wouldn’t ask for anything,’” said Hatem-Gantzer. But she said the girls and young women who came to her were unanimous in declaring: “‘I don’t want to stay an old maid.’” Also read| 'Legitimising violence': Emmanuel Macron slams reports calling France islamophobic Muslims The French government does not collect such data but think tanks and statistical groups say France has Europe’s largest Muslim minority: about 5 million or 7-8 per cent of the population. Virginity certificates can help protect women who are suspected of having illicit sex from possible retribution, said Liza Hammer of Collectif Nta Rajel, a French feminist collective for North African emigrees. “If you want to deal with this issue then women must be taken care of, not prevented from having a piece of paper they need to save their lives,” she said. Under draft legislation, President Emmanuel Macron is proposing a year in prison and a 15,000-euro ($17,875) fine for any medical professional who issues a virginity certificate. The rules are part of legislation aimed at reinforcing secular values and fighting what Macron calls an “Islamist separatism” that he said threatens to overrun some communities. France’s interior and health ministries were not available for comment. Violent reprisals While not in favour of the tests, doctors and women’s rights groups worry that some girls and women might fall victim to abuse without a certificate to attest to their virginity. “In certain extreme situations, the only way out for women is to break up with their family or to turn to the virginity (testing) market,” the French abortion advice group ANCIC said in a statement. “Professionals need to make the choice that seems the most ethical to them,” the association said. In an open letter to a French newspaper, a group of 10 doctors called the tests barbaric, backward and sexist. But they said that banning them could be still worse if doctors fear women might be at risk without their certification. “To prevent that (test being carried out) would be a disservice to the cause of the patient,” they said. Better education would do more than a ban to end traditional gender constraints, said ANCIC, the abortion group. Punishing doctors does not address the root cause - fear and ignorance in Muslim communities, said the group of doctors. Claudia Garcia-Moreno, the WHO’s lead on Violence against Women, agreed, saying “culturally sensitive” education must go hand in hand with any ban to prevent tests from going underground. “It needs to include women and girls understanding their rights and protections,” she said. For Hatem-Gantzer, who sees the fallout from virginity fights first hand at her Paris shelter, a ban will not quickly change such deeply-entrenched attitudes. “Our only way out is to educate young people relentlessly and to meet their parents to convince them. It’s more tiring and expensive than banning, but it’s more effective,” she said.

France debates virginity testing as activists fear violent repercussions for women

The European Commission on Monday responded to a question about France's draft security law by warning that news media must be able to "work freely".

French journalists and press freedom advocates have protested against the planned law, which would limit the right to film or photograph on-duty police officers.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-emmanuel-macron-issues-ultimatum-to-muslim-leaders-344433/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

It will also&nbsp;make it harder to hold police accountable for abuses such as excessive use of force - a growing public concern. The offence would carry a maximum penalty of one year in jail and a 45,000-euro ($53,000) fine.

EU spokesman Christian Wigand said "The commission does not comment on draft laws, but it goes without saying that in a period of crisis it is more important than ever that journalists must be able to do their jobs freely and in complete safety."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/blatant-lies-france-asks-pakistan-to-withdraw-comments-that-compared-macron-to-nazis-344721" hreflang="en">France asks Pakistan to withdraw comments that compared Macron to Nazis</a>

"As is always the case, the commission reserves the right to examine the final legislation in order to verify that it conforms to EU law," he added.

Last Tuesday, two journalists were detained in a protest that led to clashes with police as lawmakers in the National Assembly began debating the bill, which is backed by President Emmanuel Macron's party and its parliamentary allies.

The bill passed its first reading on Friday and there will be a second reading on Tuesday. It then goes to the Senate for further debate before it can become law.

An amendment drafted by the government and approved on Friday modified the article in question, 24, to add the phrase "without prejudice to the right to inform".

Prime Minister Jean Castex said this would "remove any ambiguity on the intention to guarantee respect for public freedoms while better protecting those, police and gendarmes, who ensure the protection of the population".

In practice, this law would restrict the publication of photos or videos taken of police officers' faces while carrying out their duties in public spaces, and in many cases an officer's face would have to be blurred.&nbsp;

Media unions say this could give police a green light to prevent journalists from doing their work and potentially documenting abuses by security forces.

Members of protest movements such as the "Yellow Vests" and "Extinction Rebellion", who faced a robust police response to street demonstrations -- have also denounced the draft law. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Prison term, big fine

Article 24 of the draft law foresees a one-year prison term and a 45,000-euro ($54,000) fine for publishing images that officers object to, but officials insist their target is not press freedom.

Instead, police are concerned about social media campaigns that expose individual officers.

Police say they risk great personal threat in the line of duty, and dozens have been injured in clashes with protesters in recent years.

An attack on a police station outside Paris last month by dozens of people armed with fireworks and steel bars spurred the government into taking measures.

"Ensuring the security of all those living in Europe is a key priority for the Commission and we are working hand-in-hand with the member states," Wigand said.&nbsp;

"When drafting their security legislation, member states must respect the principle of proportionality and strike the right balance between guaranteeing public security and protecting citizens' rights and freedoms, including freedom of expression, media freedom, freedom of association, privacy and access to information."

The European Commission on Monday responded to a question about France's draft security law by warning that news media must be able to "work freely". French journalists and press freedom advocates have protested against the planned law, which would limit the right to film or photograph on-duty police officers.

The European Commission on Monday responded to a question about France's draft security law by warning that news media must be able to "work freely". French journalists and press freedom advocates have protested against the planned law, which would limit the right to film or photograph on-duty police officers. It will also make it harder to hold police accountable for abuses such as excessive use of force - a growing public concern. The offence would carry a maximum penalty of one year in jail and a 45,000-euro ($53,000) fine. EU spokesman Christian Wigand said "The commission does not comment on draft laws, but it goes without saying that in a period of crisis it is more important than ever that journalists must be able to do their jobs freely and in complete safety." Also read: France asks Pakistan to withdraw comments that compared Macron to Nazis "As is always the case, the commission reserves the right to examine the final legislation in order to verify that it conforms to EU law," he added. Last Tuesday, two journalists were detained in a protest that led to clashes with police as lawmakers in the National Assembly began debating the bill, which is backed by President Emmanuel Macron's party and its parliamentary allies. The bill passed its first reading on Friday and there will be a second reading on Tuesday. It then goes to the Senate for further debate before it can become law. An amendment drafted by the government and approved on Friday modified the article in question, 24, to add the phrase "without prejudice to the right to inform". Prime Minister Jean Castex said this would "remove any ambiguity on the intention to guarantee respect for public freedoms while better protecting those, police and gendarmes, who ensure the protection of the population". In practice, this law would restrict the publication of photos or videos taken of police officers' faces while carrying out their duties in public spaces, and in many cases an officer's face would have to be blurred. Media unions say this could give police a green light to prevent journalists from doing their work and potentially documenting abuses by security forces. Members of protest movements such as the "Yellow Vests" and "Extinction Rebellion", who faced a robust police response to street demonstrations -- have also denounced the draft law. Prison term, big fine Article 24 of the draft law foresees a one-year prison term and a 45,000-euro ($54,000) fine for publishing images that officers object to, but officials insist their target is not press freedom. Instead, police are concerned about social media campaigns that expose individual officers. Police say they risk great personal threat in the line of duty, and dozens have been injured in clashes with protesters in recent years. An attack on a police station outside Paris last month by dozens of people armed with fireworks and steel bars spurred the government into taking measures. "Ensuring the security of all those living in Europe is a key priority for the Commission and we are working hand-in-hand with the member states," Wigand said. "When drafting their security legislation, member states must respect the principle of proportionality and strike the right balance between guaranteeing public security and protecting citizens' rights and freedoms, including freedom of expression, media freedom, freedom of association, privacy and access to information."

European Union warns France over press freedom as it pushes security law

Journalists and activists have raised concerns over a new bill by the French government, aimed at ushering in the so-called “global security” law

Press freedom, civil liberties concerns over French security bill

Thousands of people marched in French cities on Saturday to protest a draft law that limits filming of on-duty police officials.

The protesters say that the law will curb press freedom. The biggest gathering took place near Eiffel Tower in Paris. Police were deployed in large numbers. The protesters included media representatives, members of 'yellow vest' and 'extinction rebellion' movements. There were also individuals that waved flags of communist and green parties and trade unions.

French parliament approved an amended "comprehensive security" law last Friday that would criminalise publication of images of on duty police officers with the intent of harming their "physical or psychological integrity".

In practice, the law would restrict the publication of photos or videos taken of police officers' faces while in action.

In many cases an officer's face would have to be blurred.&nbsp;

Journalist unions said that the police may misuse the law to prevent them from doing their job. They further said that it will be harder for them to document excesses committed by members of the security forces.

An amendment clarifies that press freedom should in no way be hindered by the proposed measures.

French media are also concerned about potential rights abuse via the use of drones to watch demonstrations and facial recognition programmes linked to surveillance cameras.

French police have been taken to task in recent years for alleged brutality meted out to protesters and criminal suspects, especially those from black, Arab or other minorities.

In the northern city of Lille, around 1,000 demonstrators turned out, one of whom carried an English-language sign that said "Orwell was right" in a reference to the dystopian novel "1984".

Others marched in the Brittany city of Rennes and in Montpellier on the Mediterranean coast, where some chanted: "Put down your arms and we'll put down our telephones."&nbsp;

Article 24 of the draft law foresees a one-year prison term and a 45,000-euro ($54,000) fine for spreading images that show officers faces or allow them to be identified when such images harm their "physical or psychological integrity".

Social media campaigns that expose individual officers are targets of the proposed legislation.

Police say they risk great personal threat in the line of duty, and dozens have been injured in clashes with protesters in recent years.

An attack on a police station outside Paris last month by dozens of people armed with fireworks and steel bars spurred the government into taking measures.

Thousands of people marched in French cities on Saturday to protest a draft law that limits filming of on-duty police officials. The protesters say that the law will curb press freedom.

Thousands of people marched in French cities on Saturday to protest a draft law that limits filming of on-duty police officials. The protesters say that the law will curb press freedom. The biggest gathering took place near Eiffel Tower in Paris. Police were deployed in large numbers. The protesters included media representatives, members of 'yellow vest' and 'extinction rebellion' movements. There were also individuals that waved flags of communist and green parties and trade unions. French parliament approved an amended "comprehensive security" law last Friday that would criminalise publication of images of on duty police officers with the intent of harming their "physical or psychological integrity". In practice, the law would restrict the publication of photos or videos taken of police officers' faces while in action. In many cases an officer's face would have to be blurred. Journalist unions said that the police may misuse the law to prevent them from doing their job. They further said that it will be harder for them to document excesses committed by members of the security forces. An amendment clarifies that press freedom should in no way be hindered by the proposed measures. French media are also concerned about potential rights abuse via the use of drones to watch demonstrations and facial recognition programmes linked to surveillance cameras. French police have been taken to task in recent years for alleged brutality meted out to protesters and criminal suspects, especially those from black, Arab or other minorities. In the northern city of Lille, around 1,000 demonstrators turned out, one of whom carried an English-language sign that said "Orwell was right" in a reference to the dystopian novel "1984". Others marched in the Brittany city of Rennes and in Montpellier on the Mediterranean coast, where some chanted: "Put down your arms and we'll put down our telephones." Article 24 of the draft law foresees a one-year prison term and a 45,000-euro ($54,000) fine for spreading images that show officers faces or allow them to be identified when such images harm their "physical or psychological integrity". Social media campaigns that expose individual officers are targets of the proposed legislation. Police say they risk great personal threat in the line of duty, and dozens have been injured in clashes with protesters in recent years. An attack on a police station outside Paris last month by dozens of people armed with fireworks and steel bars spurred the government into taking measures.

Protests in French cities against new security law

French President Emmanuel Macron has issued an 'ultimatum' to Muslim leaders - giving them 15 days to accept a 'charter of republican values'. But, Macron's moves to tackle radicalism have triggered a new controversy. Molly Gambhir tells you more

Gravitas: Emmanuel Macron issues 'ultimatum' to Muslim Leaders

Taking on Emmanuel Macron is proving to be a mistake for Imran Khan & Recep Erdogan. EU Parliamentarians are mulling sanctions against Pakistan & Turkey. Can the two countries afford getting sanctioned?

Gravitas: Will EU sanction Turkey & Pakistan?

French President Emmanuel Macron led Armistice Day commemorations at Place Clemenceau in Paris.

Macron leads Armistice Day commemorations in France

Concerns over security and immigration have increased in France after the knife attack at a church in Nice on October 29 saw three people killed.

France’s PM vows to fight relentlessly against radical Islam

Does Emmanuel Macron want to introduce a 'uniform civil code' in France? What implications will his new law have on other countries? Is France setting a precedent for secular democracies to follow?

Gravitas: What is Macron's plan to counter radical Islam?

7000 soldiers are now guarding schools and places of worship in France. French Interior Minister says the country is at war with an enemy 'that's both inside & outside' - as the Islamist backlash against Emmanuel Macron continues.

Gravitas: Emmanuel Macron says France is under attack

French police said an Orthodox priest has been wounded in a shooting incident in Lyon with the attacker having fled the scene.

France: Priest attacked in Lyon, attacker flees after shooting

#GravitasPlus with WION's Palki | 2 beheadings in 2 weeks, 7 terror attacks in 10 months, Islamic terrorism is haunting France once again. It has reignited the debate over free speech & blasphemy. Who will draw the line?

Gravitas Plus: France battles Islamic extremism

From Pakistan to Russia and Lebanon, Muslims held more protests Friday to show their anger at caricatures of the Prophet Muhammad that were recently republished in a French newspaper

France tightens security after deadly church attack in Nice

A knife-wielding attacker shouting "Allahu Akbar" beheaded a woman and killed two other people in a suspected terrorist act at a church in the French city of Nice on Thursday, while a gunman was shot dead by police in a separate incident.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-knife-attack-live-update-woman-beheaded-3-killed-suspect-apprehended-338782" hreflang="en">France knife attack live update: Woman beheaded, 3 killed; suspect apprehended</a>

Nice&nbsp;mayor, Christian Estrosi said it was a terrorist attack that took place near the Notre Dame church.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to Twitter to condemn the ''heinous attack'' and offer his&nbsp;heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims.

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I strongly condemn the recent terrorist attacks in France, including today's heinous attack in Nice inside a church. Our deepest and heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and the people of France. India stands with France in the fight against terrorism.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1321814517651787776?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 29, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"I condemn the odious and brutal attack that has just taken place in Nice and I am with France with all my heart," European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen tweeted.

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Je condamne l'attaque odieuse et brutale qui vient de se dérouler à Nice et suis de tout cœur avec la France. Mes pensées vont aux victimes de cet acte haineux. 
 
L’Europe tout entière est solidaire avec la France. Nous restons unis et déterminés face à la barbarie et au fanatisme
— Ursula von der Leyen (@vonderleyen) <a href="https://twitter.com/vonderleyen/status/1321774485297647616?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 29, 2020</a></blockquote>
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British Prime Minister Boris Johnson&nbsp;condemned the ''barbaric attack''&nbsp;pledging solidarity with France in the fight against extremism.

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I am appalled to hear the news from Nice this morning of a barbaric attack at the Notre-Dame Basilica. Our thoughts are with the victims and their families, and the UK stands steadfastly with France against terror and intolerance.
— Boris Johnson (@BorisJohnson) <a href="https://twitter.com/BorisJohnson/status/1321780350322954240?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 29, 2020</a></blockquote>
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German Chancellor Angela Merkel said Germany stood with France after the&nbsp;"brutal" knife.

"I am deeply shaken by the brutal murders in the church in Nice. My thoughts are with the relatives of those murdered and injured. Germany stands with France at this difficult time," she said, in a tweet posted by her spokesman Steffen Seibert.

The&nbsp;Kremlin, commenting on recent beheading incidents in France, said&nbsp;it was unacceptable to kill people, but also wrong to insult the feelings of religious believers.

Pope Francis prayed for the victims of the&nbsp;attack by a knifeman saying&nbsp;"terrorism and violence can never be accepted".

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I am close to the Catholic community of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Nice?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Nice</a>, mourning the attack that sowed death in a place of prayer and consolation. I pray for the victims, for their families and for the beloved French people, that they may respond to evil with good.
— Pope Francis (@Pontifex) <a href="https://twitter.com/Pontifex/status/1321791394432847873?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 29, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"Today's attack has sown death in a place of love and consolation. The Pope is aware of the situation and is close to the mourning Catholic community," Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni said in a statement.

"He prays for the victims and their loved ones, so that the violence may cease, so that we may return to look upon ourselves as brothers and sisters and not as enemies, so that the beloved French people may unite to combat evil with good", he said.

Saudi Arabia's foreign ministry issued&nbsp; a statement saying ''We strongly condemn and denounce the terrorist attack that occurred near the Notre Dame church in Nice, France, which resulted in the death and injury of several people.''

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Statement?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Statement</a> | We reiterate the Kingdom's utter rejection of such extremist acts that are inconsistent with all religions, human beliefs and common sense. We affirm the importance of rejecting practices that generate hatred, violence and extremism.
— Foreign Ministry 🇸🇦 (@KSAmofaEN) <a href="https://twitter.com/KSAmofaEN/status/1321821390845214720?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 29, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Taiwan's President,&nbsp;Tsai Ing-wen, also took to Twitter to offer her condolences for the tragic incident. "I’m deeply saddened by the news of the attack at the Notre Dame Basilica in Nice. Taiwan stands with the people of France at this trying time, &amp; supports their values of freedom &amp; diversity," she said.

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I’m deeply saddened by the news of the attack at the Notre Dame Basilica in Nice. Taiwan stands with the people of France at this trying time, &amp; supports their values of freedom &amp; diversity.
— 蔡英文 Tsai Ing-wen (@iingwen) <a href="https://twitter.com/iingwen/status/1322021197463212034?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 30, 2020</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;Turkey, while offering condolences to the victims' relatives, said&nbsp;"We strongly condemn the attack committed today inside the Notre-Dame church in Nice.''

Earlier,&nbsp;Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan&nbsp;Monday called on his countrymen&nbsp;to boycott French goods as relations between the NATO allies deteriorated over Paris's hardened stance against radical Islam.

"As it has been said in France, 'don't buy Turkish-labelled goods', I call on my people here. Never give credit to French-labelled goods, don't buy them," Erdogan said during a televised speech in Ankara.

A knife-wielding attacker shouting "Allahu Akbar" beheaded a woman and killed two other people in a suspected terrorist act at a church in the French city of Nice on Thursday, while a gunman was shot dead by police in a separate incident.

A knife-wielding attacker shouting "Allahu Akbar" beheaded a woman and killed two other people in a suspected terrorist act at a church in the French city of Nice on Thursday, while a gunman was shot dead by police in a separate incident. Also read: France knife attack live update: Woman beheaded, 3 killed; suspect apprehended Nice mayor, Christian Estrosi said it was a terrorist attack that took place near the Notre Dame church. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to Twitter to condemn the ''heinous attack'' and offer his heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims. I strongly condemn the recent terrorist attacks in France, including today's heinous attack in Nice inside a church. Our deepest and heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and the people of France. India stands with France in the fight against terrorism. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) October 29, 2020 × "I condemn the odious and brutal attack that has just taken place in Nice and I am with France with all my heart," European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen tweeted. Je condamne l'attaque odieuse et brutale qui vient de se dérouler à Nice et suis de tout cœur avec la France. Mes pensées vont aux victimes de cet acte haineux. L’Europe tout entière est solidaire avec la France. Nous restons unis et déterminés face à la barbarie et au fanatisme — Ursula von der Leyen (@vonderleyen) October 29, 2020 × British Prime Minister Boris Johnson condemned the ''barbaric attack'' pledging solidarity with France in the fight against extremism. I am appalled to hear the news from Nice this morning of a barbaric attack at the Notre-Dame Basilica. Our thoughts are with the victims and their families, and the UK stands steadfastly with France against terror and intolerance. — Boris Johnson (@BorisJohnson) October 29, 2020 × German Chancellor Angela Merkel said Germany stood with France after the "brutal" knife. "I am deeply shaken by the brutal murders in the church in Nice. My thoughts are with the relatives of those murdered and injured. Germany stands with France at this difficult time," she said, in a tweet posted by her spokesman Steffen Seibert. The Kremlin, commenting on recent beheading incidents in France, said it was unacceptable to kill people, but also wrong to insult the feelings of religious believers. Pope Francis prayed for the victims of the attack by a knifeman saying "terrorism and violence can never be accepted". I am close to the Catholic community of #Nice, mourning the attack that sowed death in a place of prayer and consolation. I pray for the victims, for their families and for the beloved French people, that they may respond to evil with good. — Pope Francis (@Pontifex) October 29, 2020 × "Today's attack has sown death in a place of love and consolation. The Pope is aware of the situation and is close to the mourning Catholic community," Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni said in a statement. "He prays for the victims and their loved ones, so that the violence may cease, so that we may return to look upon ourselves as brothers and sisters and not as enemies, so that the beloved French people may unite to combat evil with good", he said. Saudi Arabia's foreign ministry issued a statement saying ''We strongly condemn and denounce the terrorist attack that occurred near the Notre Dame church in Nice, France, which resulted in the death and injury of several people.'' #Statement | We reiterate the Kingdom's utter rejection of such extremist acts that are inconsistent with all religions, human beliefs and common sense. We affirm the importance of rejecting practices that generate hatred, violence and extremism. — Foreign Ministry 🇸🇦 (@KSAmofaEN) October 29, 2020 × Taiwan's President, Tsai Ing-wen, also took to Twitter to offer her condolences for the tragic incident. "I’m deeply saddened by the news of the attack at the Notre Dame Basilica in Nice. Taiwan stands with the people of France at this trying time, & supports their values of freedom & diversity," she said. I’m deeply saddened by the news of the attack at the Notre Dame Basilica in Nice. Taiwan stands with the people of France at this trying time, & supports their values of freedom & diversity. — 蔡英文 Tsai Ing-wen (@iingwen) October 30, 2020 × Turkey, while offering condolences to the victims' relatives, said "We strongly condemn the attack committed today inside the Notre-Dame church in Nice.'' Earlier, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan Monday called on his countrymen to boycott French goods as relations between the NATO allies deteriorated over Paris's hardened stance against radical Islam. "As it has been said in France, 'don't buy Turkish-labelled goods', I call on my people here. Never give credit to French-labelled goods, don't buy them," Erdogan said during a televised speech in Ankara.

France knife attack: World leaders condemn deadly stabbings

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brazilian-national-named-victim-of-nice-attack-339070">Brazilian national named victim of Nice attack</a>

The Brazilian foreign ministry said the victim lived in France and was a mother of three...<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brazilian-national-named-victim-of-nice-attack-339070">Read More</a>

<img alt="Nice attack victim" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="22aff772-7da1-4cdd-95ed-022d45752fae" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/brazilian.JPG" />

&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-are-in-a-war-french-minister-says-country-must-brace-itself-for-attacks-fueled-by-islamist-ideology-339015">'We are in a war': French minister says country must brace itself for attacks fueled by 'Islamist ideology'</a>

Darmanin said France needs to reel in 'rampant Islamism which is arming people ideologically'...<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-are-in-a-war-french-minister-says-country-must-brace-itself-for-attacks-fueled-by-islamist-ideology-339015">Read More</a>

<img alt="France" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3678012b-b59c-4064-87d7-f9b71eb2c1ba" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/France_2.JPG" />

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After sparking outrage by his post that Muslims had the right 'to kill millions of French people', Mahathir accused social networking platforms Twitter and Facebook of unfair treatment... <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/former-malaysian-prime-minister-mahathir-mohamad-slams-tech-giants-for-removing-posts-on-france-attack-339044">Read More</a>

<img alt="Former Malaysia PM" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="111c5152-594b-4e42-b2b5-55dce32dea57" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/mahathir.JPG" />

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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/earthquake-hits-turkey-greece-mini-tsunami-on-aegean-island-339063">Earthquake hits Turkey, Greece; 'mini-tsunami' on Aegean island</a>

The quake was registered 14 kilometres off the Greek town of Neon Karlovasion on the Aegean Sea island of Samos... <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/earthquake-hits-turkey-greece-mini-tsunami-on-aegean-island-339063">Read More</a>

<img alt="Greece Earthquake" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b83f4d26-0e11-49c8-b2b1-a4c562c7a2ec" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Greece.JPG" />

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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/qatar-to-charge-those-behind-invasive-airport-searches-of-women-339037">Qatar to charge those behind invasive airport searches of women</a>

Women on 10 Qatar Airways flights out of Doha were subject to the examinations as authorities searched for the mother of a newborn baby found abandoned in an airport bathroom...<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/qatar-to-charge-those-behind-invasive-airport-searches-of-women-339037">Read More</a>

<img alt="Qatar airways" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="dae2d49c-59b7-4f5c-8f24-17e6f93eb191" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Qatar.JPG" />

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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bangladesh-huge-crowd-holds-protest-against-france-president-emmanuel-macron-339055">Bangladesh: Huge crowd holds protest against France President Emmanuel Macron</a>

The protesters marched through streets of Dhaka and called fora boycott on French products. The crowd carried banners calling Macron "the world's biggest terrorist...<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bangladesh-huge-crowd-holds-protest-against-france-president-emmanuel-macron-339055">Read More</a>

<img alt="Bangladesh protest" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e5eae4ef-303e-4b24-b341-e1641f0f7de6" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Bangladesh.JPG" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-biden-square-off-in-key-midwestern-states-338994">Trump, Biden square off in key Midwestern states</a>

Even with the United States reaching another daily record in new Covid-19 infections on Thursday, President Trump stuck to his strategy of downplaying its dangerousness and calling for businesses to reopen...<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-biden-square-off-in-key-midwestern-states-338994">Read More</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-biden-square-off-in-key-midwestern-states-338994"><img alt="US elections" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="876210e5-803b-4426-9dea-6e88e5ed9ee7" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/us.JPG" /></a> 
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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fox-hunt-row-us-should-not-to-be-haven-for-criminals-says-china-339060">Fox Hunt row: US should not to be haven for criminals, says China</a>

China had reportedly launched a campaign in 2014 to get fugitives abroad to return to face charges...<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fox-hunt-row-us-should-not-to-be-haven-for-criminals-says-china-339060">Read More</a>

<img alt="US China" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b936149a-04e2-4797-8a82-423692bf4045" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/US%20China.JPG" />

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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-election-2020-why-are-the-polls-crucial-for-nasas-moonshot-boeing-bezos-and-musk-339026">US election 2020: Why are the polls crucial for NASA's moonshot, Boeing, Bezos and Musk</a>

Earlier, NASA had selected Bezos's Blue Origin and Musk's SpaceX to develop human landers for Artemis moon missions...<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-election-2020-why-are-the-polls-crucial-for-nasas-moonshot-boeing-bezos-and-musk-339026">Read More</a>

<img alt="Bezos Musk" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="16a1335e-de6d-4aef-b5e8-adc9d77545c4" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Bezos.JPG" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-skies-in-slovakia-see-car-transforming-into-airplane-339017">Watch | Skies in Slovakia see car transforming into airplane</a>

The car-cum-airplane is named as Air Car and has been manufactured by Slovakian firm KleinVision...<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-skies-in-slovakia-see-car-transforming-into-airplane-339017">Read More</a>

<img alt="Slovakia car" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b0ea4ce6-605a-4903-a978-acb4d29d7128" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Car.JPG" />

 
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Brazilian national named victim of Nice attack The Brazilian foreign ministry said the victim lived in France and was a mother of three...Read More 'We are in a war': French minister says country must brace itself for attacks fueled by 'Islamist ideology' Darmanin said France needs to reel in 'rampant Islamism which is arming people ideologically'.

Brazilian national named victim of Nice attack The Brazilian foreign ministry said the victim lived in France and was a mother of three...Read More 'We are in a war': French minister says country must brace itself for attacks fueled by 'Islamist ideology' Darmanin said France needs to reel in 'rampant Islamism which is arming people ideologically'...Read More Former Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad slams tech giants for removing posts on France attack After sparking outrage by his post that Muslims had the right 'to kill millions of French people', Mahathir accused social networking platforms Twitter and Facebook of unfair treatment... Read More Earthquake hits Turkey, Greece; 'mini-tsunami' on Aegean island The quake was registered 14 kilometres off the Greek town of Neon Karlovasion on the Aegean Sea island of Samos... Read More Qatar to charge those behind invasive airport searches of women Women on 10 Qatar Airways flights out of Doha were subject to the examinations as authorities searched for the mother of a newborn baby found abandoned in an airport bathroom...Read More Bangladesh: Huge crowd holds protest against France President Emmanuel Macron The protesters marched through streets of Dhaka and called fora boycott on French products. The crowd carried banners calling Macron "the world's biggest terrorist...Read More Trump, Biden square off in key Midwestern states Even with the United States reaching another daily record in new Covid-19 infections on Thursday, President Trump stuck to his strategy of downplaying its dangerousness and calling for businesses to reopen...Read More Fox Hunt row: US should not to be haven for criminals, says China China had reportedly launched a campaign in 2014 to get fugitives abroad to return to face charges...Read More US election 2020: Why are the polls crucial for NASA's moonshot, Boeing, Bezos and Musk Earlier, NASA had selected Bezos's Blue Origin and Musk's SpaceX to develop human landers for Artemis moon missions...Read More Watch | Skies in Slovakia see car transforming into airplane The car-cum-airplane is named as Air Car and has been manufactured by Slovakian firm KleinVision...Read More

Top 10 world news today: Brazilian national named Nice attack victim, earthquake hits Greece & more

Macron has been facing criticism from various Muslim-majority countries after he took a tough stand on radical Islam and defended cartoons of the Prophet Muhammad.

France President Emmanuel Macron states Islam as a religion in crisis

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