Two explosions struck near the hotel where French President Emmanuel Macron was holding meetings in Damascus, highlighting Syria’s continuing security challenges during his landmark visit.
Damascus Blasts injured at least 18 people near the hotel where French President Emmanuel Macron was holding meetings during his visit to the Syrian capital, according to Syrian state media.
The explosions occurred in a busy area between the Syrian Tourism Ministry and the National Museum, close to the Four Seasons Hotel where Macron met civil society representatives.
Authorities said the blasts injured 18 people, including four police officers.
The first explosion occurred shortly after Macron’s motorcade departed for the presidential palace.
Soon afterwards, a second blast erupted near an ambulance that had arrived at the scene, sending flames and thick black smoke into the air.
Macron continues visit
Despite the explosions, Macron continued his official programme as planned.
The French presidency said neither the president nor his delegation heard the blasts while travelling to the presidential palace.
Macron later met Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa and held talks with senior Syrian officials and military leaders.
His visit marks the first by a European Union head of state since rebels led by Sharaa overthrew former president Bashar al-Assad in 2024.
Security forces launch investigation
Following the explosions, Syrian security forces sealed off nearby roads and launched search operations to identify those responsible.
State-run Al-Ekhbariya TV quoted a security official as saying investigators had begun operations immediately after the incident.
Meanwhile, emergency crews responded quickly and worked to extinguish the fire caused by the explosions.
The attacks underscore the ongoing security challenges facing Syria as the country’s new leadership seeks to restore stability after years of conflict.
