[Cicero]

The IHT, a fully owned New York Times subordinate, tries to make Sarkozy look bad with its headline. “Paris suburb riots called ‘a lot worse’ than in 2005.”

But what the police spokesman was really talking about is the line that was crossed, and the possible consequences to come. Because Sarkozy isn’t Chirac, and won’t let this continue.

I think he’s preparing the French people for a police response.

[tips up]

Sarkozy is no Chirac. He is not likely to let this stand. I would expect a very strong response from the police and government. Like Reagan’s response to the air traffic controllers when they went on strike. Different situation here but Sarkozy is the type to have a similar, surprisingly firm response.

[Zuben Elgenubi]

I was in Paris for a week last month on business. It's a beautiful city and reminds me of the upper East Side and West Sides of NYC.

I saw one Moslem in the city, an elderly man.

I pray these riots stay in the suburbs (this riot is west of Charles DeGalle AP). If these weapons find there way into the city, the foundations of this society will shake.

I don't believe Sarkozy will allow that to happen. If the police start shooting utes in the banlieux, the outcome is unknown. Either it escalates or is suppressed (only to erupt no doubt in the future).

[Mariner]

"police response"

They were fired upon...30 officers wounded by firearms.

In any civilized country interested in survival, all the rioters would have been shot in the streets.

[El Gato]

I think he’s preparing the French people for a police response.

Police? I think it's already beyond that. Do the French have anything like the National Guard? I guess they could sic the Foreign Legion on them, but I suspect they'd prefer French "Regulars".

If the politicians let it go much farther, they might have to destroy the suburbs to save them, and of course France itself.