An explosive device exploded near a hotel where Macron was scheduled to stay in Damascus, Syria
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, highlighting the fragile security situation in the country even as Western leaders seek to rebuild relations with its new leadership.According to Reuters, bombs exploded near the hotel where Macron was staying, although the French President did not hear the explosions and continued his scheduled meeting with Syrian President Ahmed Al-Sharaa. The Associated Press reported that the explosion injured more than 18 people. The Elysee Palace later confirmed that Macron was fine and that his visit would continue.Macron had entered the presidential palace to hold talks with Al-Sharaa when the explosions occurred near the Four Seasons Hotel, where Syrian media said the French president was staying.
Explosions near the Four Seasons Hotel
A Reuters witness heard explosions in the area and saw smoke rising while the roads surrounding the site were closed and security measures were tightened.
According to the Associated Press, citing an unnamed Syrian security official, two explosive devices caused the explosions in the heart of the capital.
A video clip circulated on social media showed a car on fire and bloodstains on the street. The authorities did not immediately announce the numbers of casualties, and no group claimed responsibility.
Despite the explosions, Syrian state television later showed Macron and Sharaa meeting at the presidential palace.The incident comes a few days after an explosive device exploded in a cafe near the Palace of Justice in Damascus, killing at least 10 people and wounding 20 others.
The first European leader to visit post-Assad Syria
Macron is the first head of state from the European Union to visit Damascus since rebels led by Ahmed al-Sharaa ousted Bashar al-Assad in 2024.The visit reflects the geopolitical transformation that Syria has witnessed under the rule of Al-Sharaa, the former leader of Al-Qaeda, who has since established closer relations with Western and Middle Eastern governments after years of diplomatic isolation.Upon his arrival in Damascus on Monday, Macron said on the 10th: “I am here to confirm France’s commitment to the Syrian people. For a sovereign Syria, united in its diversity and living in peace with its neighbours. Let us open together a new page of stability and peace.”
Reconstruction and security are on the agenda
Macron’s visit focuses on rebuilding Syria, restoring diplomatic engagement, and encouraging a comprehensive political transition.He is accompanied by French business leaders, including executives from TotalEnergies and CMA CGM, reflecting France’s interest in supporting the country’s economic recovery.The French President is also expected to put pressure on Al-Sharaa regarding the protection of religious and ethnic communities in Syria after the incidents of sectarian violence that tested the new government’s pledge to build an inclusive state.The talks are also expected to include cooperation in the field of counter-terrorism and regional security, including Lebanon, after France warned Damascus against any cross-border military intervention.