Around 100 knives found in 958 random bag checks in school: How French government is facing teen violence in schoolsLately, France has been witnessing a surge in a series of attacks on teachers and pupils by school children.In April this year, the education ministry reported that 958 random bag checks in schools led to the seizure of 94 knives.The Educational Ministry of France introduced bag checks at schools this year.<h2>186 knives seized in two months</h2>Moreover, in a two-month period this spring, 186 knives were seized during school bag checks and 32 people were detained during that period.On Tuesday, a 15-year-old student stabbed a French middle school employee to death during a bag check at their school east of Paris, the national gendarme service said.The student was then arrested for stabbing the 31-year-old teaching assistant.French President Emmanuel Macron condemned the attack, calling the educational assistant, 'a victim of senseless violence'.“While she was looking after our children in Nogent, an educational assistant lost her life, a victim of senseless violence,” Macron said in a post on X. “The nation is in mourning and the government mobilized to bring crime down.”Far-right leader Marine Le Pen also condemned the attack, stressing, "Not a week goes by without a tragedy striking a school."Pen further denounced the "trivialization of ultra-violence, fueled by the apathy of public authorities."In another case in April, a high school student stabbed four other students at his school in Western France, killing one and injuring three others.<h2>Metal detectors to prevent attacks</h2>In April, Prime Minister Francois Bayrou suggested metal detectors to prevent such attacks in future to keep schools safe.Bayrou called for a response to the "endemic violence" among some youths and demanded proposals to prevent further violence."These weapons must be banned", raising the possibility of metal detectors as “one option.”&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-victim-of-senseless-violence-teenager-stabs-teaching-assistant-to-death-during-a-bag-check-at-french-school-1749554275878">Also read: 'Victim of senseless violence': Teenager stabs teaching assistant to death during a bag check at French school</a>

On Tuesday, a 15-year-old student stabbed a French middle school employee to death during a bag check at their school east of Paris, the national gendarme service said.

Around 100 knives found in 958 random bag checks in school: How French government is facing teen violence in schools Lately, France has been witnessing a surge in a series of attacks on teachers and pupils by school children. In April this year, the education ministry reported that 958 random bag checks in schools led to the seizure of 94 knives. The Educational Ministry of France introduced bag checks at schools this year. 186 knives seized in two months Moreover, in a two-month period this spring, 186 knives were seized during school bag checks and 32 people were detained during that period. On Tuesday, a 15-year-old student stabbed a French middle school employee to death during a bag check at their school east of Paris, the national gendarme service said. The student was then arrested for stabbing the 31-year-old teaching assistant. French President Emmanuel Macron condemned the attack, calling the educational assistant, 'a victim of senseless violence'. “While she was looking after our children in Nogent, an educational assistant lost her life, a victim of senseless violence,” Macron said in a post on X. “The nation is in mourning and the government mobilized to bring crime down.” Far-right leader Marine Le Pen also condemned the attack, stressing, "Not a week goes by without a tragedy striking a school." Pen further denounced the "trivialization of ultra-violence, fueled by the apathy of public authorities." In another case in April, a high school student stabbed four other students at his school in Western France, killing one and injuring three others. Metal detectors to prevent attacks In April, Prime Minister Francois Bayrou suggested metal detectors to prevent such attacks in future to keep schools safe. Bayrou called for a response to the "endemic violence" among some youths and demanded proposals to prevent further violence. "These weapons must be banned", raising the possibility of metal detectors as “one option.” Also read: 'Victim of senseless violence': Teenager stabs teaching assistant to death during a bag check at French school

On Tuesday, a 15-year-old student stabbed a French middle school employee to death during a bag check at their school east of Paris, the national gendarme service said.

Around 100 knives found in 958 random bag checks in school: How French government is facing teen violence in schools

A teenager stabbed a French middle school employee to death during a bag check on Tuesday (June 10) at their school east of Paris, the national gendarme service said.The 15-year-old student was then arrested for attacking the 31-year-old teaching assistant.During the arrest, a police officer helping with the bag checks was also arrested, the gendarme service said.Currently, the attack at the Francoise Dolto School in Nogent is being investigated.Recently, France has seen a rise in a series of attacks on teachers and pupils by other school children.Education Minister Elisabeth Borne was on her way to Nogent "to support the entire school community and the police.""I commend the composure and dedication of those who acted to subdue the attacker and protect the students and staff," she said on X.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/france-knife-attack-teenage-girl-killed-in-french-school-stabbing-attack-9000422">Watch | France knife attack: Teenage girl killed in French school stabbing attack</a><h2>French President condemns attack</h2>French President Emmanuel Macron condemned the attack, calling the educational assistant, 'a victim of senseless violence'.“While she was looking after our children in Nogent, an educational assistant lost her life, a victim of senseless violence,” Macron said in a post on X. “The nation is in mourning and the government mobilized to bring crime down.”The Educational Ministry of France introduced bag checks at schools this year. Notably, in two month period this spring, 186 knives were seized during school bag checks and 32 people have been detained.Earlier in April, a high school student stabbed four other students at his school in Western France, killing one and injuring three others.At that time, Prime Minister Francois Bayrou suggested metal detectors to prevent future attacks.Bayrou called for a response to the "endemic violence" among some youths and demanded proposals to prevent further violence."These weapons must be banned", raising the possibility of metal detectors as "one option."&nbsp;

Education Minister Elisabeth Borne was on her way to Nogent "to support the entire school community and the police."

A teenager stabbed a French middle school employee to death during a bag check on Tuesday (June 10) at their school east of Paris, the national gendarme service said. The 15-year-old student was then arrested for attacking the 31-year-old teaching assistant. During the arrest, a police officer helping with the bag checks was also arrested, the gendarme service said. Currently, the attack at the Francoise Dolto School in Nogent is being investigated. Recently, France has seen a rise in a series of attacks on teachers and pupils by other school children. Education Minister Elisabeth Borne was on her way to Nogent "to support the entire school community and the police." "I commend the composure and dedication of those who acted to subdue the attacker and protect the students and staff," she said on X. Watch | France knife attack: Teenage girl killed in French school stabbing attack French President condemns attack French President Emmanuel Macron condemned the attack, calling the educational assistant, 'a victim of senseless violence'. “While she was looking after our children in Nogent, an educational assistant lost her life, a victim of senseless violence,” Macron said in a post on X. “The nation is in mourning and the government mobilized to bring crime down.” The Educational Ministry of France introduced bag checks at schools this year. Notably, in two month period this spring, 186 knives were seized during school bag checks and 32 people have been detained. Earlier in April, a high school student stabbed four other students at his school in Western France, killing one and injuring three others. At that time, Prime Minister Francois Bayrou suggested metal detectors to prevent future attacks. Bayrou called for a response to the "endemic violence" among some youths and demanded proposals to prevent further violence. "These weapons must be banned", raising the possibility of metal detectors as "one option."

Education Minister Elisabeth Borne was on her way to Nogent "to support the entire school community and the police."

'Victim of senseless violence': Teenager stabs teaching assistant to death during a bag check at French school

Rafale manufacturer Dassault Aviation, a French aerospace company, has now partnered with the India-based Tata group to manufacture some part of the fighter jets for India and other global markets as well.According to a press statement, a manufacturing facility will be set up in Hyderabad.The two companies have signed four agreements to build the Rafale fighter aircraft fuselage in India.This will mark the first time Rafale fuselage will be manufactures outside France, making it a decisive step in strengthening supply chain in India and its defence sector.Thanks to the expansion of our local partners, including TASL, one of the major players in the Indian aerospace industry, this supply chain will contribute to the successful ramp-up of the Rafale, and, with our support, will meet our quality and competitiveness requirements," Eric Trappier, Chairman and CEO of Dassault Aviation said.While, Sukaran Singh, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of Tata Advanced Systems Limited said that this production underscores the deepening trust in Tata Advanced Systems capabilities and the strength of India's collaboration with Dassault Aviation.Reportedly, India used rafale jets made by Dassault Aviation were used in Operation Sindoor. Day after Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi gave a bold message to Pakistan, defining "Laxman Rekha' against terrorism, the shares of Dassault Aviation extended a substantial uprise for a second straight session on May 14.The shares jumped after the Indian Air Force launched Operation Sindoor on May 7, a precision strike aimed at terrorist infrastructures in Pakistan, after the deadly Pahalgam terror attack, that claimed the lives of 26 people."Dassault Aviation and Tata Advanced Systems Limited have signed four Production Transfer Agreements to manufacture the Rafale fighter aircraft fuselage in India, marking a significant step forward in strengthening the country's aerospace manufacturing capabilities and supporting global supply chains," the press statement read."This facility represents a significant investment in India's aerospace infrastructure and will serve as a critical hub for high-precision manufacturing," it added.Tata Advanced Systems will set up a cutting-edge production facility in Hyderabad for the manufacture of key structural sections of the Rafale.It will include "the lateral shells of the rear fuselage, the complete rear section, the central fuselage, and the front section."The first fuselage sections are likely to roll off the assembly line by 2028, and it is expected that the facility will deliver up to two complete fuselages per month.&nbsp;

This will mark the first time Rafale fuselage will be manufactures outside France, making it a decisive step in strengthening supply chain in India and its defence sector.

Rafale manufacturer Dassault Aviation, a French aerospace company, has now partnered with the India-based Tata group to manufacture some part of the fighter jets for India and other global markets as well. According to a press statement, a manufacturing facility will be set up in Hyderabad. The two companies have signed four agreements to build the Rafale fighter aircraft fuselage in India. This will mark the first time Rafale fuselage will be manufactures outside France, making it a decisive step in strengthening supply chain in India and its defence sector. Thanks to the expansion of our local partners, including TASL, one of the major players in the Indian aerospace industry, this supply chain will contribute to the successful ramp-up of the Rafale, and, with our support, will meet our quality and competitiveness requirements," Eric Trappier, Chairman and CEO of Dassault Aviation said. While, Sukaran Singh, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of Tata Advanced Systems Limited said that this production underscores the deepening trust in Tata Advanced Systems capabilities and the strength of India's collaboration with Dassault Aviation. Reportedly, India used rafale jets made by Dassault Aviation were used in Operation Sindoor. Day after Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi gave a bold message to Pakistan, defining "Laxman Rekha' against terrorism, the shares of Dassault Aviation extended a substantial uprise for a second straight session on May 14. The shares jumped after the Indian Air Force launched Operation Sindoor on May 7, a precision strike aimed at terrorist infrastructures in Pakistan, after the deadly Pahalgam terror attack, that claimed the lives of 26 people. "Dassault Aviation and Tata Advanced Systems Limited have signed four Production Transfer Agreements to manufacture the Rafale fighter aircraft fuselage in India, marking a significant step forward in strengthening the country's aerospace manufacturing capabilities and supporting global supply chains," the press statement read. "This facility represents a significant investment in India's aerospace infrastructure and will serve as a critical hub for high-precision manufacturing," it added. Tata Advanced Systems will set up a cutting-edge production facility in Hyderabad for the manufacture of key structural sections of the Rafale. It will include "the lateral shells of the rear fuselage, the complete rear section, the central fuselage, and the front section." The first fuselage sections are likely to roll off the assembly line by 2028, and it is expected that the facility will deliver up to two complete fuselages per month.

This will mark the first time Rafale fuselage will be manufactures outside France, making it a decisive step in strengthening supply chain in India and its defence sector.

Tata and Dassault come together to build Rafale fighter aircraft fuselages in India - FIRST TIME outside France

The trial of a French surgeon who admitted in court that he sexually abused hundreds of patients, most of them minors, over the years entered its final phase on Monday, and the verdict is expected on Wednesday. After three months of testimony, the trial of the biggest paedophilia case in French history is coming to an end.&nbsp;Joel Le Scouarnec, 74, a retired surgeon, has admitted to sexually assaulting or raping 299 patients in hospitals in western France between 1989 and 2014, many while they were under anaesthesia or were waking up after surgery.&nbsp;There is no suspense over the verdict, as Le Scouarnec has confessed to sexually assaulting or raping all the victims, and possibly others, over 25 years of working in nine clinics and hospitals in western and central France.&nbsp;The scale of Le Scouarnec’s crimes came to light after he exposed himself to a 6-year-old neighbour in 2017, and her parents told the police. He stood trial and was convicted in 2020 of the rape and sexual assault of four females, including the girl next door and two of his nieces. He was sentenced to 15 years in prison.<h2>Already in prison for assaulting four children, including two nieces</h2>&nbsp;He is already in prison after being sentenced in December 2020 to 15 years for raping and sexually assaulting four children, including two of his nieces.&nbsp;The prosecution has requested the maximum 20-year sentence for Scouarnec and also made the rare demand that he should be held in a centre for treatment and supervision even after any release.&nbsp;“You were the devil and he sometimes is dressed in a white coat,” prosecutor Stephane Kellenberger told Le Scouarnec.Le Scouarnec said that he was not asking for “leniency” but wanted “to become a better person”. “I am not asking the court for leniency. Simply grant me the right to become a better person,” he said in his closing statement.The court in Vannes in the western Brittany region is expected to give its verdict on Wednesday.&nbsp;&nbsp;Le Scouarnec is charged in this trial with 111 rapes and 189 sexual assaults.&nbsp;One of the surgeon’s lawyers, Maxime Tessier, said last week that his client was “utterly guilty” and that the contrition of the former surgeon, who apologised to his victims, is genuine and that he has undergone personal evolution behind bars.&nbsp;<h2>Lawyers of victims doubt sincerity in apology</h2>&nbsp;However, the lawyers of many victims questioned the sincerity of Le Scouarnec’s apologies, which they said he repeated almost mechanically during the trial, sometimes word for word.While the surgeon admitted responsibility, he also repeatedly said he did not remember his acts.&nbsp;The hearings have been marked by horror over the acts of the ex-surgeon and also frustration over the failure of medical and judicial authorities to act sooner.Le Scouarnec practised for decades until his retirement in 2017, despite a 2005 conviction for owning sexually abusive images of children.

The scale of Le Scouarnec’s crimes came to light after he exposed himself to a 6-year-old neighbour in 2017, and her parents told the police. He was convicted in 2020 of rape and sexual assault of four females, including the girl next door and two of his nieces.

The trial of a French surgeon who admitted in court that he sexually abused hundreds of patients, most of them minors, over the years entered its final phase on Monday, and the verdict is expected on Wednesday. After three months of testimony, the trial of the biggest paedophilia case in French history is coming to an end. Joel Le Scouarnec, 74, a retired surgeon, has admitted to sexually assaulting or raping 299 patients in hospitals in western France between 1989 and 2014, many while they were under anaesthesia or were waking up after surgery. There is no suspense over the verdict, as Le Scouarnec has confessed to sexually assaulting or raping all the victims, and possibly others, over 25 years of working in nine clinics and hospitals in western and central France. The scale of Le Scouarnec’s crimes came to light after he exposed himself to a 6-year-old neighbour in 2017, and her parents told the police. He stood trial and was convicted in 2020 of the rape and sexual assault of four females, including the girl next door and two of his nieces. He was sentenced to 15 years in prison. Already in prison for assaulting four children, including two nieces He is already in prison after being sentenced in December 2020 to 15 years for raping and sexually assaulting four children, including two of his nieces. The prosecution has requested the maximum 20-year sentence for Scouarnec and also made the rare demand that he should be held in a centre for treatment and supervision even after any release. “You were the devil and he sometimes is dressed in a white coat,” prosecutor Stephane Kellenberger told Le Scouarnec. Le Scouarnec said that he was not asking for “leniency” but wanted “to become a better person”. “I am not asking the court for leniency. Simply grant me the right to become a better person,” he said in his closing statement. The court in Vannes in the western Brittany region is expected to give its verdict on Wednesday. Le Scouarnec is charged in this trial with 111 rapes and 189 sexual assaults. One of the surgeon’s lawyers, Maxime Tessier, said last week that his client was “utterly guilty” and that the contrition of the former surgeon, who apologised to his victims, is genuine and that he has undergone personal evolution behind bars. Lawyers of victims doubt sincerity in apology However, the lawyers of many victims questioned the sincerity of Le Scouarnec’s apologies, which they said he repeated almost mechanically during the trial, sometimes word for word. While the surgeon admitted responsibility, he also repeatedly said he did not remember his acts. The hearings have been marked by horror over the acts of the ex-surgeon and also frustration over the failure of medical and judicial authorities to act sooner. Le Scouarnec practised for decades until his retirement in 2017, despite a 2005 conviction for owning sexually abusive images of children.

The scale of Le Scouarnec’s crimes came to light after he exposed himself to a 6-year-old neighbour in 2017, and her parents told the police. He was convicted in 2020 of rape and sexual assault of four females, including the girl next door and two of his nieces.

Paedophile French surgeon abused hundreds of kids in his care, faces verdict amid outrage over delay

Hours after a video went viral showing French President Emmanuel Macron's wife playfully smacking him on the plane, Macron finally broke the silence on the controversy people's spreading on social media.The French president rejected the video shared on social media, which purportedly shows his wife pulling his face away as they step off an aircraft in Vietnam.Macron dismissed the videos, however, agreed that the video was authentic and not fake."The videos are all real, and yes, sometimes people tamper with them, but people are attributing all kinds of nonsense to them," he said while speaking to media in Hanoi on Monday.While defending the video, Macron said, "There’s a video showing me joking and teasing my wife and somehow that becomes a sort of geo-planetary catastrophe, with people even coming up with theories to explain it.”In a video making rounds on the internet, French President Emmanuel Macron's wife Brigitte Macron has been seen, playfully smacking her husband as he stepped off the plane in Vietnam.In the video, as the aircraft opens, the first visible movement shown in the video is of Brigitte Macron's arms, reaching out to his husband.Later, the couple walked down the stairs together with smiles on their faces. However, Macron's wife declined the president's offered arm to hold.After the video went viral, netizens started debating, with some asking, "Are they okay?" While others questioned, "Is this a public spat or just pre-trip exhaustion?”The Elysee Palace initially, denied the video's existence, but eventually, it came forward admitting it, saying that it was just "playful teasing"."It was a moment when the president and his wife were relaxing one last time before the start of the trip by having a laugh. It was a moment of closeness," an Elysee official said, according to a Reuters report. &nbsp;

The French president rejected the video shared on social media, which purportedly shows his wife pulling his face away as they step off an aircraft in Vietnam.

Hours after a video went viral showing French President Emmanuel Macron's wife playfully smacking him on the plane, Macron finally broke the silence on the controversy people's spreading on social media. The French president rejected the video shared on social media, which purportedly shows his wife pulling his face away as they step off an aircraft in Vietnam. Macron dismissed the videos, however, agreed that the video was authentic and not fake. "The videos are all real, and yes, sometimes people tamper with them, but people are attributing all kinds of nonsense to them," he said while speaking to media in Hanoi on Monday. While defending the video, Macron said, "There’s a video showing me joking and teasing my wife and somehow that becomes a sort of geo-planetary catastrophe, with people even coming up with theories to explain it.” In a video making rounds on the internet, French President Emmanuel Macron's wife Brigitte Macron has been seen, playfully smacking her husband as he stepped off the plane in Vietnam. In the video, as the aircraft opens, the first visible movement shown in the video is of Brigitte Macron's arms, reaching out to his husband. Later, the couple walked down the stairs together with smiles on their faces. However, Macron's wife declined the president's offered arm to hold. After the video went viral, netizens started debating, with some asking, "Are they okay?" While others questioned, "Is this a public spat or just pre-trip exhaustion?” The Elysee Palace initially, denied the video's existence, but eventually, it came forward admitting it, saying that it was just "playful teasing". "It was a moment when the president and his wife were relaxing one last time before the start of the trip by having a laugh. It was a moment of closeness," an Elysee official said, according to a Reuters report.

The French president rejected the video shared on social media, which purportedly shows his wife pulling his face away as they step off an aircraft in Vietnam.

'Geo-planetary catastrophe': French President Macron breaks silence over his video of his wife 'smacking' him - Here's what he said

In a video making rounds on internet, French President Emmanuel Macron's wife Brigitte Macron has been seen, playfully smacking her husband as he stepped off the plane in Vietnam.Macron landed in Hanoi on Sunday evening, beginning his Southeast Asia tour.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-macron-and-zelensky-lead-wave-of-new-mobile-phone-diplomacy-8893739">Also read: &nbsp;Trump, Macron and Zelensky lead wave of new 'mobile phone diplomacy'</a>&nbsp;However, not his visit or political agendas made headlines as much as the president and his wife's playful act did.It was the brief, awkward exchange caught on camera by news agency Associated Press.<h2>Watch video here</h2>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Macron’s ‘playful smack’ goes viral; Elysee official says &quot;it was a moment of closeness&quot; . . . .<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EmmanuelMacron?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EmmanuelMacron</a> <a href="https://t.co/cHGtBMEFWf">pic.twitter.com/cHGtBMEFWf</a>&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1926951929596252271?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 26, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

In the video, as the aircraft opens, the first visible movement shown in the video is of Brigitte Macron's arms, reaching out to his husband.Later, the couple walked down the stairs together with smiles on their faces. However, Macron's wife declined the president's offered arm to hold.The Elysee Palace initially, denied the video's existence, but eventually, it came forward admitting it, saying that it was just "playful teasing"."It was a moment when the president and his wife were relaxing one last time before the start of the trip by having a laugh. It was a moment of closeness," an Elysee official said, according to a Reuters report.A source close to President Macron told BFMTV, a French news broadcaster, that the couple was “bickering” and trying to unwind before the start of a long tour.“It was a moment of complicity,” the source said. Another source described it as “a harmless squabble.”After the video went viral, netizens started debating, with some asking, "Are they okay?" While others questioned, "Is this a public spat or just pre-trip exhaustion?”Some also asked, "Was it a real slap, or just an awkward push?"Later, as Macron reached Hanoi, his office asked the internet to top-feed the “conspiracy theories,” especially the ones involving, of course, Brigitte’s act.The couple's visit to Southeast Asia will focus on strengthening ties in defence, innovation, and energy.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/seven-delegations-32-nations-india-s-diplomatic-outreach-on-operation-sindoor-1747556526647">WATCH | Seven Delegations, 32 Nations: India's Diplomatic Outreach On ‘Operation Sindoor’</a>

The Elysee Palace initially, denied the video's existence, but eventually, it came forward admitting it, saying that it was just "playful teasing".

In a video making rounds on internet, French President Emmanuel Macron's wife Brigitte Macron has been seen, playfully smacking her husband as he stepped off the plane in Vietnam. Macron landed in Hanoi on Sunday evening, beginning his Southeast Asia tour. Also read: Trump, Macron and Zelensky lead wave of new 'mobile phone diplomacy' However, not his visit or political agendas made headlines as much as the president and his wife's playful act did. It was the brief, awkward exchange caught on camera by news agency Associated Press. Watch video here

The Elysee Palace initially, denied the video's existence, but eventually, it came forward admitting it, saying that it was just "playful teasing".

Did French President Macron's wife 'playfully smack' his face on plane? Watch video to know

Iran has summoned France’s chargé d'affaires in Tehran over remarks made by the French foreign minister after an Iranian film won the top award at the Cannes Film Festival.Jean-Noël Barrot, France’s Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, had praised dissident filmmaker Jafar Panahi’s Palme d’Or win as “a gesture of resistance against the Iranian regime's oppression.”His comments, made on social media platform X, were condemned by Iran as “insulting” and “unfounded,” according to a report from state news agency IRNA on Sunday.<h2>Iran accuses France of politicising Cannes</h2>The Iranian Foreign Ministry said it summoned the French diplomat to protest what it described as France’s use of the Cannes festival to “advance its political agenda against the Islamic Republic.”The controversy stems from Panahi’s film It Was Just an Accident, which won the Palme d’Or on Saturday. The political drama follows five Iranians who confront a man they believe tortured them while in prison. Several actresses appear in the film without veils, in defiance of Iran’s strict dress code laws.<h2>Panahi says he is not afraid to return home</h2>Jafar Panahi, 64, is known for his outspoken criticism of the Iranian government and has been banned from filmmaking in Iran since 2010. He has also faced several prison sentences over the years.Despite his legal troubles, Panahi told the Cannes audience he would be returning to Iran. “Tomorrow we are leaving,” he said on Saturday when asked if he feared being arrested again. “Not at all.”On Sunday, he shared a photo on Instagram with his crew, writing: “Travellers return home.”<h2>Only the second Palme d'Or for an Iranian filmmaker</h2>Panahi’s victory marks just the second time an Iranian director has received the prestigious Palme d’Or. The first was Abbas Kiarostami in 1997 for Taste of Cherry.His latest film was widely praised throughout the week at Cannes, topping several critics’ polls ahead of the awards ceremony.

France’s Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, had praised dissident filmmaker Jafar Panahi’s Palme d’Or win as “a gesture of resistance against the Iranian regime's oppression.”

Iran has summoned France’s chargé d'affaires in Tehran over remarks made by the French foreign minister after an Iranian film won the top award at the Cannes Film Festival. Jean-Noël Barrot, France’s Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, had praised dissident filmmaker Jafar Panahi’s Palme d’Or win as “a gesture of resistance against the Iranian regime's oppression.” His comments, made on social media platform X, were condemned by Iran as “insulting” and “unfounded,” according to a report from state news agency IRNA on Sunday. Iran accuses France of politicising Cannes The Iranian Foreign Ministry said it summoned the French diplomat to protest what it described as France’s use of the Cannes festival to “advance its political agenda against the Islamic Republic.” The controversy stems from Panahi’s film It Was Just an Accident, which won the Palme d’Or on Saturday. The political drama follows five Iranians who confront a man they believe tortured them while in prison. Several actresses appear in the film without veils, in defiance of Iran’s strict dress code laws. Panahi says he is not afraid to return home Jafar Panahi, 64, is known for his outspoken criticism of the Iranian government and has been banned from filmmaking in Iran since 2010. He has also faced several prison sentences over the years. Despite his legal troubles, Panahi told the Cannes audience he would be returning to Iran. “Tomorrow we are leaving,” he said on Saturday when asked if he feared being arrested again. “Not at all.” On Sunday, he shared a photo on Instagram with his crew, writing: “Travellers return home.” Only the second Palme d'Or for an Iranian filmmaker Panahi’s victory marks just the second time an Iranian director has received the prestigious Palme d’Or. The first was Abbas Kiarostami in 1997 for Taste of Cherry. His latest film was widely praised throughout the week at Cannes, topping several critics’ polls ahead of the awards ceremony.

France’s Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, had praised dissident filmmaker Jafar Panahi’s Palme d’Or win as “a gesture of resistance against the Iranian regime's oppression.”

'Insulting remarks, unfounded allegations': Iran summons French envoy over Panahi's Cannes film hailed as 'gesture of resistance against oppression'

About 20 kilometres from Paris, on a former agricultural plain polluted by a century of sewage discharge from the capital, a forest is coming to life.

France revives its ‘green lungs’

<div data-olk-copy-source="MailCompose">The fast-fashion e-commerce giants, Shein and Temu are recalibrating their global strategies as the US tightens its grip on low-cost imports. With new tariffs and the elimination of a critical trade exemption threatening their profits, both companies are aggressively expanding their digital presence in Europe and Latin America, according to Reuters.</div>
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<div>In April, Shein increased its digital ad spending by 35 per cent in France and the United Kingdom, while China&rsquo;s PDD Group's Temu upped its ad investments by 40 per cent and 20 per cent in the same markets, respectively. This marks a deliberate shift away from the US, where the recent end of the &ldquo;de minimis&rdquo; exemption has raised the cost of doing business. According to Reuters, this exemption had previously allowed packages valued under $800 to enter the country tariff-free as a loophole Shein and Temu had used to rapidly scale their business by shipping cheap products directly to American consumers.</div>
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<div>As per Reuters, the withdrawal of this benefit came into effect on May 2 and has already begun reshaping digital ad trends. Both companies slashed their advertising in the US last month in anticipation of the policy change. At the same time, they&rsquo;ve reportedly begun increasing prices to absorb the impact of new duties as a move that could hurt their appeal among cost-conscious American shoppers.</div>
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<div>Singapore-based Shein and Temu were among the most aggressive ad buyers during the last holiday season, driving up digital ad bid rates as they fought to dominate the US market with ultra-affordable products like $12 dresses and $5 accessories. Their low pricing strategies had also disrupted legacy retailers such as Gap, H&amp;M, Zara, and even US dollar stores.</div>
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<div>While their European push includes markets like Germany, Italy, and Spain, the UK and France have seen the most pronounced uptick in advertising. According to Reuters, Shein downloads in the UK surged by 25 per cent last month, while Temu downloads more than doubled. However, daily app usage saw only modest growth, with Shein&rsquo;s UK active user base rising 5 per cent and Temu&rsquo;s by 10 per cent.</div>
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<div>Year-on-year, Temu ramped up its UK ad spending by 20 per cent and an astonishing 115 per cent in France, while Shein saw a 100 per cent rise in the UK and 45 per cent in France, as per Reuters data from Sensor Tower.</div>
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<h2>Brazil Becomes the Next Battleground</h2>
<div>The rivalry is also heating up in Latin America. According to Reuters, Shein boosted its ad spending in Brazil by 140 per cent compared to last April. The company, which manufactures locally in Brazil to better serve Latin American markets, is facing increasing competition from Temu, which is preparing for a formal launch in the region this June.</div>
<div></div>
<div>Reuters also reported that Temu&rsquo;s Brazilian ad spending skyrocketed 800-fold year-on-year, following a playbook it used when it entered the US market in September 2022. As noted by Kara Lee, brand and digital analyst at Sensor Tower, "both companies appear to be employing similar market penetration strategies: spend aggressively, dominate visibility, and localize production".</div>
<div></div>
<h2>Trump Tariffs Hit US Fashion Economy</h2>
<div>The ramifications of these trade shifts go far beyond Shein and Temu. The broader US fashion industry is now bracing for a significant economic impact. The American apparel market projected to be worth $365.7 billion in 2025 which stands to lose up to $18 billion in revenue due to the elimination of the de minimis exemption and the broader tariff regime, according to an analysis by the National Retail Federation and Trade Partnership Worldwide.</div>
<div></div>
<div>As per data cited by eMarketer, retail apparel prices are expected to rise by at least 8 per cent due to retaliatory tariffs, and potentially as much as 17 per cent when all proposed duties are considered. These cost increases will likely hit low- to middle-income families hardest, particularly those who rely on affordable fashion options. While some US retailers may benefit from reduced competition; the immediate outlook remains uncertain. Supply chains are being restructured, logistics costs are climbing, and price-sensitive shoppers are becoming harder to retain all consequences of a global fashion market jolted by protectionist trade policies.</div>
<div></div>
<div></div>

Business & Economy: Shein and Temu are aggressively expanding their digital presence in Europe and Latin America amid Trump tariff escalation.

The fast-fashion e-commerce giants, Shein and Temu are recalibrating their global strategies as the US tightens its grip on low-cost imports. With new tariffs and the elimination of a critical trade exemption threatening their profits, both companies are aggressively expanding their digital presence in Europe and Latin America, according to Reuters. In April, Shein increased its digital ad spending by 35 per cent in France and the United Kingdom, while China’s PDD Group's Temu upped its ad investments by 40 per cent and 20 per cent in the same markets, respectively. This marks a deliberate shift away from the US, where the recent end of the “de minimis” exemption has raised the cost of doing business. According to Reuters, this exemption had previously allowed packages valued under $800 to enter the country tariff-free as a loophole Shein and Temu had used to rapidly scale their business by shipping cheap products directly to American consumers. As per Reuters, the withdrawal of this benefit came into effect on May 2 and has already begun reshaping digital ad trends. Both companies slashed their advertising in the US last month in anticipation of the policy change. At the same time, they’ve reportedly begun increasing prices to absorb the impact of new duties as a move that could hurt their appeal among cost-conscious American shoppers. Singapore-based Shein and Temu were among the most aggressive ad buyers during the last holiday season, driving up digital ad bid rates as they fought to dominate the US market with ultra-affordable products like $12 dresses and $5 accessories. Their low pricing strategies had also disrupted legacy retailers such as Gap, H&M, Zara, and even US dollar stores. While their European push includes markets like Germany, Italy, and Spain, the UK and France have seen the most pronounced uptick in advertising. According to Reuters, Shein downloads in the UK surged by 25 per cent last month, while Temu downloads more than doubled. However, daily app usage saw only modest growth, with Shein’s UK active user base rising 5 per cent and Temu’s by 10 per cent. Year-on-year, Temu ramped up its UK ad spending by 20 per cent and an astonishing 115 per cent in France, while Shein saw a 100 per cent rise in the UK and 45 per cent in France, as per Reuters data from Sensor Tower. Brazil Becomes the Next Battleground The rivalry is also heating up in Latin America. According to Reuters, Shein boosted its ad spending in Brazil by 140 per cent compared to last April. The company, which manufactures locally in Brazil to better serve Latin American markets, is facing increasing competition from Temu, which is preparing for a formal launch in the region this June. Reuters also reported that Temu’s Brazilian ad spending skyrocketed 800-fold year-on-year, following a playbook it used when it entered the US market in September 2022. As noted by Kara Lee, brand and digital analyst at Sensor Tower, "both companies appear to be employing similar market penetration strategies: spend aggressively, dominate visibility, and localize production". Trump Tariffs Hit US Fashion Economy The ramifications of these trade shifts go far beyond Shein and Temu. The broader US fashion industry is now bracing for a significant economic impact. The American apparel market projected to be worth $365.7 billion in 2025 which stands to lose up to $18 billion in revenue due to the elimination of the de minimis exemption and the broader tariff regime, according to an analysis by the National Retail Federation and Trade Partnership Worldwide. As per data cited by eMarketer, retail apparel prices are expected to rise by at least 8 per cent due to retaliatory tariffs, and potentially as much as 17 per cent when all proposed duties are considered. These cost increases will likely hit low- to middle-income families hardest, particularly those who rely on affordable fashion options. While some US retailers may benefit from reduced competition; the immediate outlook remains uncertain. Supply chains are being restructured, logistics costs are climbing, and price-sensitive shoppers are becoming harder to retain all consequences of a global fashion market jolted by protectionist trade policies.

Shein and Temu pivot to Europe as the US tariffs threaten fast-fashion fortunes

Thick mats of sargassum — a brown seaweed that floats in massive clumps — have been washing ashore in Guadeloupe over the past few days, disrupting life in several coastal communities.

Seaweed invasion hits parts of France

Wall Street regained its confidence last week. Speculative assets, like cryptos and tech firms, skyrocketed. Corporate America unleashed billions of dollars' worth of pent-up bond sales. In this report, we look at the epic comeback in global stocks and what to expect in the coming week.

Stocks rebound to wipe out losses from April's tariff shock

An unusual early heatwave has hit northern France, with Paris recording temperatures as high as 25°C — well above seasonal norms. As Parisians bask in the unexpected sunshine, concerns rise over climate patterns and sudden temperature spikes this spring.

Temperatures in Paris reach unusual high of 25 °C

A massive power outage knocked out electricity in large parts of Spain, Portugal, and also some parts of southern France.

PM Sanchez: Telecommunications at a critical moment, power restored in parts of Spain

India and France formally inked 63,000 crore rupees or $7 billion deal to buy 26 Rafale marine fighter jets. This will clear the way for the Indian Navy to acquire 22 single-seater and four twin-seater aircraft as part of the agreement negotiated with France under a government-to-government framework. Watch in for more details!

India, France sign Rs 63,000 crore mega deal for 26 Rafale-marine jets for Navy

A nationwide power outage hit Spain, Portugal, and part of southern France on Monday (Apr 28), leaving millions without electricity. While the cause of the power failure remains unclear, local media reports indicated issues with the European electric grid, which affected the national grids in the Iberian Peninsula.
(more details to follow)

Local media reports indicated issues with the European electric grid, which affected the national grids in the Iberian Peninsula.

A nationwide power outage hit Spain, Portugal, and part of southern France on Monday (Apr 28), leaving millions without electricity. While the cause of the power failure remains unclear, local media reports indicated issues with the European electric grid, which affected the national grids in the Iberian Peninsula. (more details to follow)

Massive power outage hits Spain, Portugal, France: Here’s why it happened

India on Monday (April 28) officially signed a deal with France to purchase 26 Rafale Marine fighter jets, valued at around ₹64,000 crore ($7.41 billion), for the Indian Navy.
The agreement comes after the Cabinet Committee on Security approved the government-to-government contract earlier this month. Deliveries of the new jets are expected to start in about three and a half years and should be completed within six and a half years.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rafale-m-roars-in-indias-answer-to-pakistans-terror-games-9009226">Rafale M roars in: India's answer to Pakistan&rsquo;s terror games</a>
Under the deal, India will receive 22 single-seat Rafale Marine jets designed for combat missions and four twin-seat trainers to help pilots prepare for operations at sea. Built by French aerospace company Dassault Aviation, these advanced fighters are set to be deployed on INS Vikrant, India's first indigenous aircraft carrier.
The new Rafale jets will work alongside the Navy&rsquo;s current fleet of Russian-made MiG-29K fighters, which are based on both INS Vikrant and INS Vikramaditya, an older aircraft carrier also of Russian origin. The MiG-29Ks, bought between 2004 and 2010, have faced reliability issues over the years, with only 15% to 47% of them reported as operational at times, according to a 2016 report.
<h2>A strategic upgrade for the Navy and Air Force</h2>
The addition of the Rafale Marine jets It will not just replace ageing aircraft but will significantly modernise India&rsquo;s naval air power.
The agreement is also expected to benefit the Indian Air Force (IAF). The new jets will support the IAF&rsquo;s &ldquo;buddy-buddy&rdquo; mid-air refuelling system, allowing up to 10 Rafale aircraft to refuel each other during missions, which will extend their operational range.
The IAF already flies 36 Rafale fighter jets, which were purchased under a ₹60,000 crore deal signed with France in 2016. The first Rafale jets for the IAF arrived in Ambala in 2020, marking a major leap in India&rsquo;s air strength.
<h2>Why did India order exactly 26 jets?</h2>
The decision to buy exactly 26 Rafale Marine fighters is closely tied to the design of INS Vikrant. Launched in 2022, the carrier has the capacity to hold 26 aircraft.
The Navy&rsquo;s order includes 22 single-seaters for combat missions and four twin-seaters for pilot training, making full use of the carrier&rsquo;s available space.
Choosing 25 or 27 jets would have either left a spot empty or exceeded the ship&rsquo;s carrying capacity. Though no official explanation has been given, it is clear that ordering 26 jets matches the operational needs of the carrier perfectly.

India news: Under the deal, India will receive 22 single-seat Rafale Marine jets designed for combat missions and four twin-seat trainers to help pilots prepare for operations at sea.

India on Monday (April 28) officially signed a deal with France to purchase 26 Rafale Marine fighter jets, valued at around ₹64,000 crore ($7.41 billion), for the Indian Navy. The agreement comes after the Cabinet Committee on Security approved the government-to-government contract earlier this month. Deliveries of the new jets are expected to start in about three and a half years and should be completed within six and a half years. Also read: Rafale M roars in: India's answer to Pakistan’s terror games Under the deal, India will receive 22 single-seat Rafale Marine jets designed for combat missions and four twin-seat trainers to help pilots prepare for operations at sea. Built by French aerospace company Dassault Aviation, these advanced fighters are set to be deployed on INS Vikrant, India's first indigenous aircraft carrier. The new Rafale jets will work alongside the Navy’s current fleet of Russian-made MiG-29K fighters, which are based on both INS Vikrant and INS Vikramaditya, an older aircraft carrier also of Russian origin. The MiG-29Ks, bought between 2004 and 2010, have faced reliability issues over the years, with only 15% to 47% of them reported as operational at times, according to a 2016 report. A strategic upgrade for the Navy and Air Force The addition of the Rafale Marine jets It will not just replace ageing aircraft but will significantly modernise India’s naval air power. The agreement is also expected to benefit the Indian Air Force (IAF). The new jets will support the IAF’s “buddy-buddy” mid-air refuelling system, allowing up to 10 Rafale aircraft to refuel each other during missions, which will extend their operational range. The IAF already flies 36 Rafale fighter jets, which were purchased under a ₹60,000 crore deal signed with France in 2016. The first Rafale jets for the IAF arrived in Ambala in 2020, marking a major leap in India’s air strength. Why did India order exactly 26 jets? The decision to buy exactly 26 Rafale Marine fighters is closely tied to the design of INS Vikrant. Launched in 2022, the carrier has the capacity to hold 26 aircraft. The Navy’s order includes 22 single-seaters for combat missions and four twin-seaters for pilot training, making full use of the carrier’s available space. Choosing 25 or 27 jets would have either left a spot empty or exceeded the ship’s carrying capacity. Though no official explanation has been given, it is clear that ordering 26 jets matches the operational needs of the carrier perfectly.

India, France ink ₹63,000 crore deal to buy 26 Rafale fighter jets: Why did New Delhi order 26 jets, and not 25 or 27?

India, France sign ₹63,000 crore mega deal for 26 Rafale fighters

The man suspected of stabbing a young Malian to death in a mosque in southern France has been arrested. According to the prosecutors, the suspect Olivier, a French national born in Lyon in 2004, surrendered himself to a police station in Italy. Watch in for more details!

French mosque murder suspect arrested in Italy; authorities confirm

India will acquire 26 Rafale-Marine jets from France, including weapons and support, to boost Navy capabilities on INS Vikrant.

Indian Navy to get 26 Rafale-Marine fighters, France to supply weapons with aircraft

India and France are set to sign a Rs 63,000 crore deal for 26 Rafale Marine combat aircraft on Monday in Delhi, defence officials said.
Officials from the Indian Defence Ministry and the French Ambassador to India will represent the two sides at the signing event. Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh is likely to represent the Indian side, while the French and Indian defence ministers are expected to attend remotely, sources said.
Earlier, the French Defence Minister was scheduled to attend the signing in person but had to cancel his visit due to personal reasons.
The Cabinet Committee on Security had cleared the deal earlier this month.
The 26 Rafale Marine fighter jets are urgently required for deployment on Indian aircraft carriers, particularly INS Vikrant, which is now in service. The existing fleet of MiG-29K fighters has reportedly underperformed due to maintenance-related issues.
The Rafale M jets will be customised to meet Indian requirements and will be integrated into INS Vikrant. These carrier-borne fighters are being acquired as a stopgap solution until the development of an indigenous carrier-borne fighter jet is completed.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rafales-and-su-30s-lead-indian-air-forces-exercise-aakraman-amid-tensions-with-pakistan-9000497">Rafales and Su-30s lead Indian Air Force's Exercise 'Aakraman' amid tensions with Pakistan. Aakraman means attack</a>
Sources said the signing event is likely to be held outside the Defence Ministry headquarters at South Block.
The French Minister is expected to arrive in India on Sunday evening and depart on Monday late evening, the sources added.
India had cleared its largest-ever defence deal for 26 Rafale Marine combat aircraft earlier this month on April 9 during a meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Security, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
The government-to-government contract includes 22 single-seater and four twin-seater jets, along with a comprehensive package for fleet maintenance, logistical support, personnel training, and indigenous component manufacturing.
The Rafale M jets will operate from INS Vikrant and support the existing MiG-29K fleet. The Indian Air Force already operates a fleet of 36 Rafale aircraft acquired under a separate deal signed in 2016. These aircraft are based at Ambala and Hasimara.
The new deal will raise the total number of Rafale jets in India to 62, significantly boosting the country's fleet of 4.5-generation fighter aircraft.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Earlier, the French Defence Minister was scheduled to attend the signing in person but had to cancel his visit due to personal reasons. India news | World

India and France are set to sign a Rs 63,000 crore deal for 26 Rafale Marine combat aircraft on Monday in Delhi, defence officials said. Officials from the Indian Defence Ministry and the French Ambassador to India will represent the two sides at the signing event. Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh is likely to represent the Indian side, while the French and Indian defence ministers are expected to attend remotely, sources said. Earlier, the French Defence Minister was scheduled to attend the signing in person but had to cancel his visit due to personal reasons. The Cabinet Committee on Security had cleared the deal earlier this month. The 26 Rafale Marine fighter jets are urgently required for deployment on Indian aircraft carriers, particularly INS Vikrant, which is now in service. The existing fleet of MiG-29K fighters has reportedly underperformed due to maintenance-related issues. The Rafale M jets will be customised to meet Indian requirements and will be integrated into INS Vikrant. These carrier-borne fighters are being acquired as a stopgap solution until the development of an indigenous carrier-borne fighter jet is completed. Also read | Rafales and Su-30s lead Indian Air Force's Exercise 'Aakraman' amid tensions with Pakistan. Aakraman means attack Sources said the signing event is likely to be held outside the Defence Ministry headquarters at South Block. The French Minister is expected to arrive in India on Sunday evening and depart on Monday late evening, the sources added. India had cleared its largest-ever defence deal for 26 Rafale Marine combat aircraft earlier this month on April 9 during a meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Security, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The government-to-government contract includes 22 single-seater and four twin-seater jets, along with a comprehensive package for fleet maintenance, logistical support, personnel training, and indigenous component manufacturing. The Rafale M jets will operate from INS Vikrant and support the existing MiG-29K fleet. The Indian Air Force already operates a fleet of 36 Rafale aircraft acquired under a separate deal signed in 2016. These aircraft are based at Ambala and Hasimara. The new deal will raise the total number of Rafale jets in India to 62, significantly boosting the country's fleet of 4.5-generation fighter aircraft. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

India, France to sign $7.3 billion deal for 26 Rafale Marine combat aircraft

A 15-year-old student at a French high school has stabbed four other fellow students during a lunch break killing one of them and injuring three others. This attack took place at a Notre-Dame-de-Toutes-Aides school in Nantes on Thursday afternoon. Authorities have confirmed that the victim was a female student but they have declined to discuss a possible motive saying that further details would be released by the prosecutor's office. Watch this report to know more!

France knife attack: Teenage girl killed in French school stabbing attack

A student killed one student and wounded three others in a stabbing spree at a private high school in northwestern France before being arrested Thursday, a police source said.
France has in recent years been shaken by a series of school incidents involving attacks on teachers as well as schoolchildren by their peers.
In the latest case of teenage violence, the assailant attacked fellow students with a knife at the Notre-Dame de Toutes-Aides secondary school in the city of Nantes at around 12:30 pm (1030 GMT), before being overpowered by teachers.
French Education Minister Elisabeth Borne said she and Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau were headed to the scene.
"A knife attack took place at lunchtime today at a private school in Nantes," she posted on X.
"I am travelling to the scene with @BrunoRetailleau to express my solidarity with the victims and my support for the educational community," she added.
The school administration sent a message to the families of the some 2,000 students who attend the school, informing them of the incident.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/diplomatic-tensions-escalate-as-france-expels-12-algerian-agents-says-will-recall-ambassador-8968044">Diplomatic tensions escalate as France expels 12 Algerian agents, says will recall ambassador</a>
Students had been immediately confined inside the school, the statement added.
"In coordination with the authorities present, we are organising the gradual release of students from 3:30 pm onwards in accordance with a strict protocol," the message said.
<h2>Site sealed off</h2>
Concerned parents gathered outside of the school, which had already been cordoned off by police who, with French soldiers, were guarding the site.
Ludivine, 48, said she had learned that the attack had happened in her daughter's class.
"As an anxious mother who doesn't let her out alone, I never thought anything would happen to her at her school," she said.
AFP spoke with one student who gave her initial account of what happened.
"I was in the cafeteria with my friends and we were told that a high school pupil had stabbed students in several classrooms," she said, without giving her name.
"We were told not to leave the cafeteria for about 20 minutes and then we were confined to a gym."
She added the assailant "was known to be depressed, he said he loved Hitler".
Borne in February said police would start random searches for knives and other weapons concealed in bags at and around schools in a bid to deal with an increase in violent attacks.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

France has in recent years been shaken by a series of school incidents involving attacks on teachers as well as schoolchildren by their peers. World

A student killed one student and wounded three others in a stabbing spree at a private high school in northwestern France before being arrested Thursday, a police source said. France has in recent years been shaken by a series of school incidents involving attacks on teachers as well as schoolchildren by their peers. In the latest case of teenage violence, the assailant attacked fellow students with a knife at the Notre-Dame de Toutes-Aides secondary school in the city of Nantes at around 12:30 pm (1030 GMT), before being overpowered by teachers. French Education Minister Elisabeth Borne said she and Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau were headed to the scene. "A knife attack took place at lunchtime today at a private school in Nantes," she posted on X. "I am travelling to the scene with @BrunoRetailleau to express my solidarity with the victims and my support for the educational community," she added. The school administration sent a message to the families of the some 2,000 students who attend the school, informing them of the incident. Also read | Diplomatic tensions escalate as France expels 12 Algerian agents, says will recall ambassador Students had been immediately confined inside the school, the statement added. "In coordination with the authorities present, we are organising the gradual release of students from 3:30 pm onwards in accordance with a strict protocol," the message said. Site sealed off Concerned parents gathered outside of the school, which had already been cordoned off by police who, with French soldiers, were guarding the site. Ludivine, 48, said she had learned that the attack had happened in her daughter's class. "As an anxious mother who doesn't let her out alone, I never thought anything would happen to her at her school," she said. AFP spoke with one student who gave her initial account of what happened. "I was in the cafeteria with my friends and we were told that a high school pupil had stabbed students in several classrooms," she said, without giving her name. "We were told not to leave the cafeteria for about 20 minutes and then we were confined to a gym." She added the assailant "was known to be depressed, he said he loved Hitler". Borne in February said police would start random searches for knives and other weapons concealed in bags at and around schools in a bid to deal with an increase in violent attacks. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

French student killed, three injured after teenager goes on stabbing spree

Heavy rain and storms have left parts of southwestern France grappling with severe flooding, prompting authorities to issue orange alerts for the departments of Dordogne and Gironde.

Floods hit south-west France: Over 1,100 homes without power in Dorodogne

Amid rising tensions and ongoing war in Ukraine, the US has called on France to take a leadership role in European defense. Talks between French and US officials, including a meeting in Paris and Washington, focused on military spending and possible ceasefire efforts. Watch this report to know more!

US urges France to lead Europe’s defense amid Ukraine ceasefire talks

French Defence Minister S&eacute;bastien Lecornu is expected to travel to India in the first week of May to finalize the key Rafale M deal that was given a go-ahead by the Indian government earlier this month.&nbsp;
The Rs 63,000 crore deal for procuring 26 Rafale M for the Indian Navy is a government-to-government deal, and will further firm up India, and France's defence ties. The deal, once concluded during defence minister Lecornu's visit, will be formally sealed after years of negotiations.&nbsp;
The deal includes 22 single-seater Rafale-M jets and 4 twin-seater Rafale trainers. The Rafales M fighter jets replace the Indian Navy's MiG 29K fleet, &amp; enhance naval air power in the Indian Ocean region that has seen increased volatility.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/why-26-decoding-indias-rafale-m-magic-number-8945826">Why 26? Decoding India&rsquo;s Rafale-M Magic Number</a>
These jets will operate from India's aircraft carriers, INS Vikrant and INS Vikramaditya.
In July 2023, the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) headed by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh granted Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) paving the way for negotiations.&nbsp;
The deal builds on India&rsquo;s prior purchase of 36 Rafale jets for the Indian Air Force in 2016 as France emerged as India's key defence partner.&nbsp;
India, and France defence relationship has grown by leaps and bounds since the strategic partnership was established in 1998. Not only France has emerged as an important arms supplier to India, but it has also been supporting the "Make In India" initiative including cooperating on the development of next-generation jet engines.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-clears-biggest-ever-fighter-jet-deal-26-rafale-marine-jets-for-navy-approved-8943122">India clears biggest-ever fighter jet deal, 26 Rafale Marine jets for Navy approved</a>
Both hold regular military exercises, Varuna for Naval exercises, Shakti for army exercises, and Garuda for Air Exercises. Earlier this year, during PM Modi's France visit, the Indian side had proposed exporting its Pinaka rocket launcher to the country.

The Rafales M fighter jets replace the Indian Navy's MiG 29K fleet, & enhance naval air power in the Indian Ocean region that has seen increased volatility. India news

French Defence Minister Sébastien Lecornu is expected to travel to India in the first week of May to finalize the key Rafale M deal that was given a go-ahead by the Indian government earlier this month. The Rs 63,000 crore deal for procuring 26 Rafale M for the Indian Navy is a government-to-government deal, and will further firm up India, and France's defence ties. The deal, once concluded during defence minister Lecornu's visit, will be formally sealed after years of negotiations. The deal includes 22 single-seater Rafale-M jets and 4 twin-seater Rafale trainers. The Rafales M fighter jets replace the Indian Navy's MiG 29K fleet, & enhance naval air power in the Indian Ocean region that has seen increased volatility. Also read: Why 26? Decoding India’s Rafale-M Magic Number These jets will operate from India's aircraft carriers, INS Vikrant and INS Vikramaditya. In July 2023, the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) headed by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh granted Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) paving the way for negotiations. The deal builds on India’s prior purchase of 36 Rafale jets for the Indian Air Force in 2016 as France emerged as India's key defence partner. India, and France defence relationship has grown by leaps and bounds since the strategic partnership was established in 1998. Not only France has emerged as an important arms supplier to India, but it has also been supporting the "Make In India" initiative including cooperating on the development of next-generation jet engines. Also read: India clears biggest-ever fighter jet deal, 26 Rafale Marine jets for Navy approved Both hold regular military exercises, Varuna for Naval exercises, Shakti for army exercises, and Garuda for Air Exercises. Earlier this year, during PM Modi's France visit, the Indian side had proposed exporting its Pinaka rocket launcher to the country.

French Defense Minister Lecornu to visit India in May to seal Rafale-M deal

Tourists and locals have gathered on the beach at Berck, in northern France, for the 37th edition of the International Kite Festival. Watch in for more details!

Kite Flyers Break World Record At International Kite Festival in Northern France

France is on high alert after a wave of violent attacks targeting its prison system, including arson and gunfire incidents. A prison warden’s car was set on fire as tensions escalated. The French Justice Minister has vowed not to yield to intimidation.

France launches crackdown after violent prison attacks, 200 arrested in raids

And finally, after a stint in Paris, an exhibition of David Bowie's photographs is currently underway in France, featuring 150 never-seen-before images of the late singer. We leave you with this report.

David Bowie’s life through the lens: Photo exhibition opens in France

A fresh diplomatic storm brews between France and Algeria as Algiers expels 12 French officials within 48 hours, following indictments against three Algerians. France has linked the expulsions to the legal proceedings, while Algeria defends it as a sovereign decision. Watch to know more!

France-Algeria diplomatic tensions soar as officials expelled over indictments

The 38th Burke International Kite Festival is underway in Northern France. Tens of thousands of visitors are flocking to the seafront to watch the kites dance in the sky. We are going to leave you here with this visual.

Berck Kite Festival draws global crowd

In a bold move towards sustainability, winemakers in France are replacing traditional glass bottles with eco-friendly paper bottles made from 85% recycled paperboard. While the switch is praised for reducing carbon footprint, some purists worry it could alter the taste of fine wine.

French winemakers ditch glass bottles for eco-friendly paper bottles

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