France declares state of emergency in New Caledonia after deadly riots

France declared a state of emergency in New Caledonia due to deadly riots stemming from protests against electoral reform. The unrest erupted over a bill allowing long-term French residents to vote in provincial elections, sparking fears of diluting indigenous Kanak community influence. Prime Minister Gabriel Attal condemned the violence and vowed to restore order. The riots led to casualties and heightened security measures, including a curfew in the capital.