Two bombs exploded Tuesday near the hotel where French President Emmanuel Macron was staying during a visit to Damascus [1].
The attacks occurred during a historic diplomatic mission to Syria, signaling a high level of security risk and potential political instability surrounding the visit. The proximity of the blasts to the presidential residence suggests a targeted attempt to disrupt the diplomatic proceedings.
The explosions took place near the Four Seasons hotel, where Macron spent the night [1], [4]. At least 18 people were injured in the blasts [2]. Witnesses reported seeing smoke rising from the sector close to the hotel [3].
An Élysée spokesperson said Emmanuel Macron is "sain et sauf" — safe and sound [2]. Despite the security breach, an official statement from the French president said, "La visite se poursuit," indicating that the visit will continue [1].
Macron was in the Syrian capital to meet with Ahmed al-Charaa [3]. The timing of the attacks coincides with this high-profile meeting, raising questions about the current security environment in Damascus and the motives of those responsible for the blasts.
French security officials have not yet released a full report on the nature of the explosives used or the identity of the perpetrators. The French delegation remains in the city under heightened security protocols following the events of Tuesday [1], [3].
“Emmanuel Macron is «sain et sauf»”
The occurrence of these explosions during a historic visit by a G7 leader underscores the volatile security landscape in Syria. By choosing to continue the visit, Macron is signaling that France will not be deterred by militant activity, though the breach in security near a high-profile hotel highlights the persistent threat of politically motivated violence in the region.
