Sabotage Causes Cannes Blackout; Palme d'Or Awarded

A major power outage hit southeastern France on the final day of the 78th Cannes Film Festival, affecting about 160,000 homes in the Alpes-Maritimes region. Authorities suspect sabotage, involving both arson at a Tanneron substation and damage to a high-voltage transmission tower, though no arrests have been made. The blackout halted festival screenings and disrupted local traffic and businesses, but organizers used independent generators to keep key events, including the Palme d'Or ceremony, on schedule. A criminal investigation into deliberate arson is underway, and officials have condemned the attacks on electrical infrastructure. The festival resumed normal operations by late afternoon and awarded the top prize to Jafar Panahi's 'It Was Just an Accident.' The incident underscored the vulnerability of critical infrastructure during major international events.