French authorities have recorded more than 50 physical assaults on candidates and campaigners during the short three-week campaign period leading up to France's high-stakes parliamentary elections, according to Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin. In an interview with CNN affiliate BFMTV, Darmanin highlighted the severity of the attacks, stating that some victims have been hospitalized for their injuries.

The attacks have prompted authorities to take action, with approximately 30 individuals being taken in for questioning in relation to the assaults. In anticipation of potential disorder, an additional 30,000 police officers have been deployed to ensure the safety of candidates and maintain order during the elections, particularly to prevent far-left and far-right groups from inciting violence.

With tensions running high, politicians have expressed concerns over the possibility of massive protests erupting if the far-right manages to secure a significant victory. President Emmanuel Macron has even warned of a potential "civil war" if either extreme political wing were to win by a substantial margin in the upcoming runoff vote on Sunday.

The incidents of violence have affected individuals from various political parties. French government spokesperson Prisca Thevenot and her team were attacked while canvassing. Marie Dauchy, a politician from the National Rally party, has suspended her campaign after being physically assaulted during a market visit. Additionally, Nicolas Conquer, a center-right candidate, has filed a complaint alleging assault by left-wing campaigners.

Meanwhile, the interior minister emphasized that the terror threat in the country remains a cause for considerable concern. Two recent incidents, while yet to be officially classified as terrorist-related, have resulted in several arrests and are under investigation by the national anti-terrorist prosecutor's office.

In the first round of the parliamentary elections, the far-right National Rally party led the way with 33.15% of the vote. The left-wing New Popular Front coalition secured second place with 27.99%, while Macron's Ensemble alliance plunged to third with 20.76%. However, despite the strong performance, it is uncertain whether the National Rally will secure the 289 seats necessary for an absolute majority, potentially leading to a hung parliament and increased political uncertainty in France.

With violence on the campaign trail escalating and the nation on edge, all eyes are now focused on the runoff vote, as France grapples with maintaining societal harmony during these politically turbulent times.