The disruption, set to commence from 0400 GMT on Saturday and extend through late Sunday, has cast a shadow over travel plans for thousands of passengers, exacerbating concerns as France braces for the impending Paris Olympics
The strike, called by unions to protest the financial management of the tower, could extend indefinitely, casting a shadow over one of Paris's most beloved landmarks
A spokesperson for the Eiffel Tower confirmed that the closure is in effect until further notice, citing ongoing contract negotiations between the city of Paris, which owns the 134-year-old monument, and the striking workers
With international tourist arrivals surging by 7.3% in 2023 to a historic 100 million, France has solidified its position as the world's most visited country, surpassing traditional giants Spain and the USA
Former allies, including Patrick Vignal, have not minced words in expressing their disillusionment. "People hate you," Vignal bluntly remarked during a recent exchange with the president, reflecting a sentiment echoed by a growing chorus within political circles
Macron specifically called out Marine Le Pen's "National Rally" party, accusing it of exacerbating societal divisions by focusing on religious and ethnic issues. He argued that this approach could incite civil conflict, pushing the nation towards dangerous and violent internal strife
Despite these efforts, the city continues to grapple with a century-old sewer network that struggles to manage the volume of stormwater during heavy rains. This inadequacy results in periodic discharges of untreated sewage directly into the River Seine, compromising its water quality
Bardella's proposals include strict measures such as expelling foreign criminals and abolishing the Droit du sol, which grants nationality to anyone born on French soil and living there for at least five years between the ages of 11 and 18
