Explosions Rock Damascus During Macron's Visit, Injuring 18

Explosions Near Hotel in Damascus

On Tuesday, two bombs detonated close to the hotel where French President Emmanuel Macron was conducting meetings in Damascus, resulting in injuries to 18 individuals and triggering a security operation in the vicinity. The initial explosion occurred shortly after Macron's convoy departed for the presidential palace, followed by a second blast that was recorded on video as emergency responders and onlookers gathered in the area. According to the French Presidency, Macron was unaware of either explosion and proceeded with his scheduled meeting with Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa.

The blasts took place in a bustling section of central Damascus, situated between Syria's tourism ministry and the national museum, directly opposite the Four Seasons hotel, where Macron had previously engaged with civil society representatives. Syrian state media reported that four police officers were among those injured. No group has claimed responsibility for the attacks, and Syrian officials have not indicated that the explosives were targeted at the visiting French leader.

Second Explosion Captured on Video

Footage from the scene depicted flames and smoke billowing from a trash bin following the first explosion. As crowds began to gather, an ambulance was stationed nearby when a second device detonated just a few meters away. This explosion was also recorded, releasing thick black smoke into the street as emergency responders rushed towards nearby shops to manage the fire.

Macron's Schedule Unaffected

At the time of the explosions, Macron was en route to the presidential palace. Video footage showed the French motorcade traveling along a highway prior to the blasts, while later images captured Macron alongside Sharaa, engaging with Syrian officials and military leaders. A journalist accompanying the press group reported that there were no audible explosions or disruptions during Macron's morning activities.

The French Presidency confirmed that the blasts were not heard from Macron's motorcade, and there were no immediate changes to his agenda. The President continued with his planned engagements, including the meeting with Sharaa shortly after the explosions.

In response, Syrian internal security forces cordoned off roads and initiated searches for those responsible for the attacks. State-run Al-Ekhbariya TV reported that efforts were underway to identify the perpetrators. Security measures in the area were heightened as investigators focused on the two explosive devices and the circumstances surrounding their placement.

The explosions occurred at a sensitive time for Syria's new leadership. Macron's visit marked the first by a head of state from a major European Union nation since rebel forces led by Sharaa ousted Bashar al-Assad in 2024, aiming to highlight the evolving political dynamics between Syria and Europe. However, the blasts underscored the ongoing security challenges facing Damascus.

Despite the incidents, Macron's visit proceeded on Tuesday. The occurrence of two explosions mere meters from the hotel designated for his engagements—one occurring while emergency personnel were already present—provided a stark contrast to the intended message of Syria's political transformation.