France Faces Political Turbulence: Hung Parliament and Left-Wing Surge

France faces a hung parliament after a left-wing surge prevented Marine Le Pen from achieving far right dominance. President Emmanuel Macron's fragmented coalition indicates future political instability, weakening France's international role. With the National Assembly deeply divided, forming a stable government remains uncertain.

France is bracing for political instability after experiencing a hung parliament and a surprising left-wing surge that blocked the far right's path to power. The New Popular Front (NFP) has emerged as the dominant force, raising the possibility of a minority government or an unwieldy coalition.

This outcome is a significant setback for President Emmanuel Macron, leaving France's parliament fragmented and weakening the country's influence within the European Union. This turmoil comes just weeks before Paris is set to host the Olympic Games, adding to the urgency of forming a stable government.

The left, led by the NFP, won 182 seats, while Macron's centrist alliance secured 168 and Le Pen's National Rally (RN) and allies garnered 143. The next steps involve complex negotiations, with no clear path to a working majority, signaling a challenging period ahead for French politics.

(With inputs from agencies.)