In brief
French President Emmanuel Macron was unharmed after a series of explosions struck central Damascus while he was on a diplomatic visit. The blasts, caused by two explosive devices, caused smoke, fire and several injuries. Macron, who met Syrian President Ahmed al‑Sharaa at the presidential palace, reported no harm and continued his itinerary, which includes a NATO summit in Turkey. Syrian emergency crews responded to the incident, and the incident occurred about 125 metres from the Four Seasons hotel. Macron's return to France and the diplomatic context underline the tense security situation in Syria.
French president safe after explosions in Damascus during visit
French President Emmanuel Macron remains safe after reports of explosions in central Damascus on Tuesday morning, the Elysee Palace confirmed.
Macron was in the city for talks with Syrian counterpart Ahmed al‑Sharaa at the presidential palace. A security source told the BBC the blasts were caused by two explosive devices, wounding several people but leaving Macron unharmed. While on his way to the meeting he heard no explosions, officials said. The incident took place roughly 125 metres from the Four Seasons hotel on the pavements of Shoukry al‑Quowatly.
The French president is scheduled to head to Turkey for the NATO summit after his visit. The bombings come amid heightened tensions in Syria; a previous blast at a bustling café earlier this month killed nine and injured 22. Macron’s visit marks the first by an EU leader to Syria since the collapse of Bashar al‑Assad’s 24‑year rule. Video footage from Reuters shows the flames and emergency crews on the scene, while Moscow state media highlight the Greek–Syrian alliance on Wednesday.
Macron’s safety and the ongoing diplomatic discussions highlight the fraught security environment in Damascus. As the situation unfolds, international observers watch closely as security forces in Syria attempt to mitigate further threats amid the broader conflict in the region.
