At least two explosions rocked central Damascus on Tuesday near the hotel where French President Emmanuel Macron was staying during his historic visit to Syria, underscoring the country's volatile security environment even as Western nations move to restore diplomatic ties with its new leadership.
According to Reuters, the blasts occurred close to Macron's hotel, but the French president was unaware of the explosions and continued with his scheduled meeting with Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa. The Associated Press reported that more than 18 people were injured in the incident.
The Elysee Palace later confirmed that Macron was safe and that his visit would proceed as planned.
The explosions took place near the Four Seasons Hotel, where Syrian media reported Macron was staying, shortly after he arrived at the presidential palace for talks with al-Sharaa.
A Reuters witness reported hearing the explosions and seeing smoke rising from the area. Security forces quickly sealed off surrounding roads and significantly tightened security measures.
The Associated Press, citing an unnamed Syrian security official, reported that two explosive devices were responsible for the blasts in the centre of the capital.
Videos circulating on social media appeared to show a vehicle engulfed in flames along with bloodstains on a nearby street. Authorities did not immediately release official casualty figures, and no organisation claimed responsibility for the attack.
Despite the explosions, Syrian state television later broadcast footage of Macron meeting al-Sharaa at the presidential palace.
The attack came only days after an explosive device detonated at a café near Damascus' Justice Palace, killing at least 10 people and injuring 20 others.
Macron's trip marks the first visit to Damascus by a European Union head of state since Bashar al-Assad was overthrown in 2024 by rebels led by Ahmed al-Sharaa.
The visit reflects Syria's changing diplomatic landscape under al-Sharaa, a former al Qaeda commander who has since strengthened relations with Western and Middle Eastern governments following years of international isolation.
Upon arriving in Damascus on Monday, Macron wrote on X, "I am here to affirm France's commitment to the Syrian people. For a sovereign Syria, united in its diversity and at peace with its neighbours. Together, let's open a new page of stability and peace."
Reconstruction efforts, renewed diplomatic engagement and support for an inclusive political transition are among the key issues on Macron's agenda during the visit.
He is accompanied by senior executives from major French companies, including TotalEnergies and CMA CGM, highlighting France's interest in contributing to Syria's economic reconstruction.
Macron is also expected to urge al-Sharaa to safeguard Syria's religious and ethnic minorities following recent episodes of sectarian violence that have raised concerns over the new government's commitment to building an inclusive state.
Discussions are also expected to focus on counterterrorism cooperation and broader regional security, including developments in Lebanon, after France reportedly cautioned Damascus against any military involvement across the border.
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