French left opposition demands Macron's resignation amid political turmoil

The left opposition in France's National Assembly (lower house of parliament) has demanded the resignation of President Emmanuel Macron. This comes after the parliament voted no confidence in Prime Minister Michel Barnier's government due to the controversial passage of social sections of the 2025 state budget without parliamentary approval.

Mathilde Panot, head of the "France Unbowed" party's parliamentary group, called for early presidential elections in the country.

"We are not responsible for the chaos, but Emmanuel Macron, who has been ruling the country for seven years, is. Early presidential elections are necessary," she declared.

Macron, who was on a three-day visit to Saudi Arabia, returned to Paris shortly before the voting results were announced.

The no-confidence motion passed with 331 deputies voting in favor, now requiring the prime minister to submit his resignation.