18 Injured in Damascus Blasts During Macron's Historic Visit
Eighteen people were injured on Tuesday by two bomb explosions in central Damascus, according to the Syrian government. The blasts occurred near the Four Seasons hotel, where French President Emmanuel Macron was staying during his visit to the country.
The Syrian interior ministry reported that security forces detected two explosive devices—one in a parked car and another in a bin. The devices detonated as specialists began defusing them, the state news agency Sana said. French officials confirmed that Macron was safe and did not hear the explosions. He later held talks with Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa at the presidential palace as planned.
No group has claimed responsibility for the attack. A spokesman for Syria's interior ministry stated that an initial lead pointing to those responsible had been discovered, without providing further details.
The incident highlights the ongoing security challenges faced by Syrian authorities and occurred during the first visit to Syria by a European Union leader since the fall of the Assad regime in 2024. Macron's trip, aimed at discussing bilateral relations and regional stability, was overshadowed by the blasts.
Authorities have cordoned off the area and are investigating the attack. The injured have been taken to local hospitals, with reports indicating none of the injuries are life-threatening.
