Two explosions struck Damascus on Tuesday while French President Emmanuel Macron was in the city for a state visit [1].
The security breach occurred during a historic diplomatic engagement between Macron and Syrian President Ahmed Al-Sharaa. The timing of the blasts underscores the volatility of the region and the persistent security risks facing high-level diplomatic efforts in Syria.
Reports on the exact location of the blasts vary. Some accounts said the explosions were heard in central Damascus near the Four Seasons Hotel, where Macron was staying [2]. Other reports said the president was inside the presidential palace area when the explosions occurred [1].
At least 18 people were wounded in the attacks [3]. Among the injured were four police officers [3]. This event marks the second blast in the city within a few days [1].
French officials said Macron did not hear the blasts [4]. An official from the Elysee Palace said the president was safe and the meeting with President Al-Sharaa continued [1].
Authorities have not specified the cause of the explosions or a motive for the attacks. Officials said the blasts were a security setback, though no group has claimed responsibility for the incident [1, 3].
“Two explosions struck Damascus on Tuesday while French President Emmanuel Macron was in the city.”
The occurrence of these blasts during a high-profile state visit suggests that despite the presence of President Al-Sharaa, the Syrian state cannot fully guarantee security for foreign dignitaries. This incident may complicate future diplomatic outreach and highlights the precarious nature of stabilizing Damascus.
