In a post on Truth Social on Tuesday (October 6), Trump said that what is happening in France is the result of mass immigration. He claimed that the matter is not about schools; rather, Islam is trying to take over France.

However, according to the protesters’ claims, the movement began last week in protest against various mismanagements, including school staff shortages, dilapidated buildings, and too many students in classrooms. It later spread across the country.

Although the protests were largely peaceful, several incidents of violence occurred. Reports mention that one student had a hand severed and another lost their sight. Concerns have also arisen over the police’s excessive use of force in these incidents.

French Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu has taken a position in favor of the police’s role in dealing with the protests.

Ahead of next month’s midterm elections in the United States, Trump’s comments are being seen as part of an effort to build public opinion in favor of his anti-immigration stance and strict deportation policy.