Bomb Blasts Shake Damascus During Macron’s Historic Syria Visit, 18 Injured

French President Safe as Explosions Underscore Syria’s Fragile Security

DAMASCUS, Syria Two explosions rocked central Damascus on Tuesday, injuring at least 18 people near the hotel where French President Emmanuel Macron had stayed during his landmark visit to Syria, highlighting the country’s continuing security challenges despite ongoing political reforms. Reuters reported the incident.

The blasts occurred in a busy district between Syria’s Ministry of Tourism and the National Museum, directly opposite the Four Seasons Hotel, where Macron spent the night before meeting Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa.

According to Syrian authorities, 18 people sustained injuries. No fatalities were immediately reported.

Although the explosions happened close to the French delegation’s accommodation, the French presidency confirmed Macron was unharmed and had already departed for the Presidential Palace before the first blast occurred. Officials added that neither Macron nor members of his convoy heard the explosions.

Attack Fails to Disrupt Macron’s Visit

Despite the attack, Macron proceeded with his official engagements, meeting President Ahmed al-Sharaa and senior Syrian government officials.

Following the incident, Macron reaffirmed France’s support for Syria’s reconstruction efforts, writing on social media that violence would not derail hopes for a peaceful future.

“Nothing can undermine the desire of Syrians to live in a fully sovereign and secure Syria.”

His visit marks the first by a European Union head of state since the fall of former Syrian President Bashar al-Assad in 2024, making it a significant diplomatic milestone.

Explosions Captured on Camera

Eyewitnesses and Reuters journalists reported seeing thick smoke and flames rising from the blast area.

The first explosion occurred shortly after Macron’s motorcade left the hotel for the presidential palace.

Moments later, a second device exploded only a few metres away while emergency responders and bystanders had gathered at the scene.

Video footage showed:

• Thick black smoke engulfing nearby streets.
• Fire erupting from a roadside trash container.
• Emergency crews battling flames.
• Shops close to the explosion sustaining damage.

Fortunately, the presidential convoy was already some distance away when the blasts occurred.

Authorities Say Bombs Were Being Defused

The Syrian Interior Ministry disclosed that security personnel had discovered two improvised explosive devices before the explosions.

Officials said security teams were attempting to defuse the bombs when they detonated.

Investigators revealed:

• One explosive device had been hidden inside a parked vehicle.
• The second was concealed in a roadside trash bin.
• Both were located outside the main security perimeter protecting Macron’s residence.

Authorities have launched an intensive search operation to identify and arrest those responsible.

No group has claimed responsibility for the attack.

Damascus Faces Renewed Security Threats

Tuesday’s bombing comes less than a week after another deadly attack struck a café in Damascus, killing nine people and injuring 20 others.

Although no organization claimed responsibility for that incident, Syria has experienced renewed attacks by extremist groups in recent months.

The terrorist group Islamic State has claimed several attacks against Syrian government forces since February after announcing a renewed campaign against the country’s new leadership.

A Country Still Rebuilding After Years of War

Since taking power following the collapse of the Assad government in 2024, President Ahmed al-Sharaa has sought to stabilise Syria, restore diplomatic relations, and attract international support for reconstruction.

The country, however, continues to grapple with serious security challenges after more than 13 years of civil war.

While the new administration has promised an inclusive political transition, sporadic violence, extremist attacks and sectarian tensions remain significant obstacles to long-term stability.

Tuesday’s explosions serve as another reminder that, despite political change and renewed international engagement, Syria’s security situation remains highly volatile.