Two explosive devices detonated near the Four Seasons Hotel in Damascus during French President Emmanuel Macron’s visit to Syria, injuring at least 18 people, including security personnel.
French officials said Macron was unharmed and continued his scheduled meetings with Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa. The blasts occurred near the hotel where the French leader was staying, though reports said he had already left for official talks when the explosions happened. (The Guardian)
Syrian authorities said the devices were planted near a high-security area used by diplomats and international personnel. No group immediately claimed responsibility.
The attack has raised fresh concerns over security in Damascus as Syria’s new leadership seeks to rebuild ties with Western countries after years of diplomatic isolation.
Macron’s visit is being seen as a major diplomatic moment, marking one of the highest-profile European engagements with Syria since the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s government.
Despite the explosions, France said the visit would continue, while Syrian officials pledged to investigate the attack and strengthen security around diplomatic sites.
