The governments good surprise

The public deficit of France was less than expected in 2025, equivalent to 5.1% of GDP, exceeding the ministry’s forecast by 0.3 points and a decrease of 0.7 points compared to 2024. This data was released this morning by Insee. Revenues are increasing, while expenses are decreasing. This improvement has also led to a reduction in the public debt ratio. The deficit and debt have been major points of political tension recently. Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu expressed his satisfaction this morning, emphasizing that this improvement will not immediately result in aid for companies or consumers. He stressed the importance of financial discipline regardless of the positive figures.

In other news, less than a week after the second round of municipal elections, new councils are officially being installed today. In Nice, Erica Ciotti and her 51 councilors were appointed, with former mayor Christian Estrosi not present in the opposition ranks.

Education Minister Edouard Geffray has raised concerns about TikTok’s algorithm, which seemingly promotes depressive or suicidal content to users. This action follows a parliamentary investigation into TikTok’s effects on minors that concluded eight months ago.

Tomorrow may mark the first month of the joint US-Israel offensive against Iran, with President Donald Trump postponing plans to strike Iran’s energy infrastructure twice in a week, extending the negotiation deadline to April 6. The situation remains uncertain, with questions about Trump’s intentions and Israel’s continued military actions against Iran.

Israel is also continuing its offensive against Hezbollah, which appears to be regaining strength despite previous conflicts. The ongoing warfare has resulted in civilian casualties, particularly in the southern regions of Israel.

The editor’s guest is Daniel Meier, a professor at Sciences Po Grenoble specializing in Middle Eastern geopolitics and border studies.