Already in its third week, the civil unrest in France continues to make headlines in Iran, where many are questioning the government's violent response in quelling the public anger. The "yellow vests" have been protesting increased fuel taxes imposed by President Emmanuel Macron's government. The rallies have turned into France's worst turmoil in decades, with running street battles and intense scuffles between police and protesters amid burning tires and rubble from damaged public property.
Generally hailing France as the cradle of democracy, Iranians have long associated the French with the courage to vent anger on the streets. The response to the "gilets jaunes" is now making them question the French political system's claims about democracy and the right to public protest.
