Just as French President Emmanuel Macron was meeting Syria’s new leadership, two explosions shook central Damascus.
At least 18 people were injured, a stark reminder of the country’s fragile security.
Syrian state media said security forces discovered two explosive devices near the Four Seasons hotel, where Macron had been staying.
One bomb was hidden inside a parked vehicle and the other in a rubbish bin.
Both exploded as bomb disposal teams attempted to defuse them.
Four police officers were among the injured, officials said.
Officials confirmed Macron was safe and unaware of the blasts during his meeting with President Ahmed al-Sharaa.
An eyewitness told BBC Arabic that the first explosion caused property damage.
The second, which occurred as security personnel searched the area, injured several officers and bystanders.
Blast Shakes Historic Syria Visit
Authorities have launched an investigation to identify those responsible.
The incident comes during Macron’s historic visit.
It is the first by a European Union leader since Syria’s political transition following the fall of the Assad government in late 2024.
While discussing reconstruction and economic recovery, the French leader acknowledged the country’s challenges.
He wrote: “Nothing can smother the aspiration of Syrian women and men to live in a fully sovereign, safe, pluralistic, and united Syria.”
The blasts serve as a sobering reminder that rebuilding Syria will require more than diplomacy—it will also demand lasting security.
