DAMASCUS: Two explosions struck a central area of Damascus on Tuesday near the hotel hosting French President Emmanuel Macron, highlighting Syria’s fragile security situation during the first visit by a leader of a major European Union country since the fall of former president Bashar al-Assad.
According to Syrian state media, the blasts occurred in the busy district between the Tourism Ministry and the National Museum, opposite the Four Seasons Hotel, where Macron had been meeting representatives of civil society.
Syrian authorities said at least 18 people were injured, including four police officers. The first explosion happened shortly after Macron’s convoy departed for the presidential palace, where he later held talks with Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa.
Video footage showed flames and smoke rising after the initial blast, while a second explosion occurred moments later near an ambulance that had arrived at the scene. Emergency teams quickly responded to extinguish the fire and assist the injured.
The French presidency said Macron neither heard the explosions nor witnessed any disruption, adding that his programme continued as scheduled. Journalists travelling with the French delegation also reported no indication of the attack during the president’s journey.
Syrian security forces launched an investigation and sealed off surrounding roads while conducting search operations to identify those responsible for the attack.
Macron’s visit was aimed at demonstrating international support for Syria’s political transition under President Ahmed al-Sharaa, whose administration has strengthened ties with Western and regional governments following Assad’s ouster in 2024.
Despite those diplomatic efforts, security concerns remain severe. Militants affiliated with Daesh have intensified attacks against government forces in recent months, claiming responsibility for several operations since February.
The latest explosions come just days after a bombing at a café in Damascus killed nine people and injured around 20 others. No group has claimed responsibility for that attack.
Since taking power, Sharaa has pledged to establish an inclusive political system after decades of Assad family rule. However, the transition has been overshadowed by recurring violence involving pro-government forces and members of religious and ethnic minority communities, raising concerns about the country’s long-term stability.
