On 15 September 2026, protests driven by rising fuel prices erupted in France.
Background Due to the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz in the 2026 Iran war and escalation of the Yemeni civil war, the price of diesel in France had surpassed €2.37 per liter ($2.72 per liter), just 1c below its record high of €2.38.
Protests Fishermen, police officers, farmers, construction workers, energy workers, medical workers, university staff and other groups have participated in the protests. Fishermen took their boats and blockaded two ports in Nice and Sète, obstructing maritime traffic, while others burned tires and wooden pallets on roads to petrol depots in Frontignan in Fos Sur-mer, preventing access.
On social media, calls for renewed Yellow vests protests to be held gained traction, with calls for mass demonstrations for 17 October.
Impact On 16 September, Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu said that the government would increase its petrol subsidies for affected industries to the maximum authorized level allowed under EU rules until 31 December. The minor subsidies did not quell the protests, which resumed on 17 September.
French president Emmanuel Macron announced plans to convene an emergency G7 meeting.
Place Publique presidential candidate Raphaël Glucksmann criticised the French government for its "lack of preparedness" over the cost-of-living crisis.
See also
2026 Irish fuel protests 2026 Syrian fuel protests
References