Macron Rejects Trump's Claims on French Riots Amid Gulf Tour

French President Emmanuel Macron pushed back against claims made by U.S. President Donald Trump, who suggested that immigrants and Muslims were behind the recent riots and looting in France. Speaking during a tour of the Gulf states, Macron accused foreign leaders—including those located across the Atlantic—of exploiting the tense social climate in France to advance their own political agendas.

Trump had earlier claimed on social media that the unrest was not about education or social conditions, but rather part of a hostile takeover. Following weekend clashes that led to thousands of arrests and widespread looting, Trump renewed his criticism, calling on France to close its borders and regain control. When asked by reporters if he was referring to Trump, Macron confirmed that he was among those engaging in foreign information manipulation.

Macron specifically pointed to the circulation of artificial intelligence-generated images that depicted events which never occurred in France. He criticized politicians in the midst of election campaigns for naively repeating or deliberately amplifying fabricated narratives to serve their domestic political interests.

Meanwhile, French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrio warned of ongoing foreign interference attempts targeting upcoming elections, pointing to both online disinformation campaigns and geopolitical tensions. As security forces in France prepare for further protests, President Macron concluded his Gulf tour in Saudi Arabia, where he met with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to secure energy agreements aimed at easing fuel prices at home.