Tensions as Paris suburb tries to stop Muslim street prayers
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}Tensions have erupted as residents and the mayor of a Paris suburb try to block Muslims from praying in the street, in a dispute that reflects nationwide problems with mosque shortages.
Police formed a human barricade between a few dozen Muslim residents trying to pray Friday in the streets of Clichy-la-Garenne and more than 100 demonstrators trying to stop them.
As the Muslims chanted "Allahu akbar," or "God is great" in Arabic, the demonstrators sang the Marseillaise.
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}Mayor Remi Muzueau led demonstrators to the site where Muslims have been praying for months. Those praying tried to set up on a side street instead, but police pushed them back, prompting minor skirmishes.
No one has been hurt, but both sides appear to be digging in their heels in the dispute.