Protesters have hit France with transport strikes, demonstrations and blockades that are targeting the Paris Metro and other sectors. The action on Thursday opposed President Emmanuel Macron's plans to cut funding for public services. Protests were held in Paris and nationwide. Major trade unions are pushing for the abandonment of proposed budget cuts, social welfare freezes and other measures. These cuts are aimed at reducing France’s massive deficit. They have triggered the collapse of previous governments. The government has deployed about 80,000 police officers to maintain order. Regional rail lines and the Paris Metro are expected to be severely impacted.

The Israeli defense minister is warning that Gaza’s largest city could be destroyed unless Hamas yields to his country’s terms. Israel Katz spoke Friday, the same day that the world’s leading authority on food crises said that Gaza City is gripped by famine from fighting and an Israeli blockade. A day earlier, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said he would authorize the military to mount a major operation to seize Gaza City. Katz restated Israel’s ceasefire demands for the release of all hostages and Hamas’ complete disarmament. Hamas has said it would release captives in exchange for ending the war, but the militant group rejects disarmament without the creation of a Palestinian state.