DAMASCUS, Syria – Web Desk: Explosions were reported near the hotel where French President Emmanuel Macron was staying during his landmark visit to Syria’s capital on Tuesday, prompting heightened security measures across the city . According to international media, a security source confirmed that explosive devices detonated near the Four Seasons Hotel in central Damascus, the designated accommodation for the French leader .
A Reuters witness reported hearing explosions in the vicinity and seeing smoke rising, while roads were sealed off and additional security measures were implemented . One of the bombs was reportedly placed in a trash bin and another in a vehicle near the hotel . Despite the security scare, the French presidency (Elysee) stated that President Macron was safe and that the blasts were not audible from his motorcade . A Reuters journalist traveling with the press group accompanying Macron also confirmed they neither heard the blasts nor saw any commotion during the French president’s morning engagements .
Historic Visit Continues: Shortly after the incident, Syrian state television reported that President Macron safely reached the Presidential Palace and held a scheduled meeting with Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa . The two leaders discussed Syria’s political situation, bilateral relations, and regional security. This visit is historically significant as it marks the first official trip to Syria by a European Union head of state since rebels led by President al-Sharaa toppled Bashar al-Assad’s regime in 2024 .
The blasts underscore the fragile security environment in Syria as its new leadership faces significant challenges in rebuilding the country, maintaining law and order, and fostering trust among diverse religious and ethnic groups . President al-Sharaa has pledged to build an inclusive political system, but the promise has been tested by intermittent violence pitting pro-government forces against members of minority communities . No group has claimed responsibility for the explosions, and Syrian authorities have launched an investigation into the incident.
