Two Explosions in Syria Injure 18, French President Macron Safe

Damascus (Terror Monitor) — Two explosions occurrMonir a hotel in Syria’s capital Damascus on Tuesday where French President Emmanuel Macron was staying, injuring at least 18 people.

Media reports said Macron was not present at the hotel at the time of the blasts, as he had already departed for the presidential palace for a scheduled meeting with Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa.

Witnesses said explosions were heard in several parts of Damascus, while smoke was seen near the Four Seasons Hotel. Security forces quickly sealed off the area, blocked roads, and dispatched ambulances to the scene.

Syria’s Interior Ministry said one explosive device was planted in a vehicle parked on the roadside, while another was placed inside a garbage container. The ministry said both blasts occurred while authorities were preparing to defuse the devices.

State media reported that four police officers were among the injured. Nearby buildings suffered broken windows, and security was tightened around the area.

A local resident, Hamam Hamoud, 37, said he saw three traffic police officers injured on the ground before the area was evacuated and routes were closed.

The explosions occurred as Syrian state television was announcing Macron’s arrival at the presidential palace. However, France’s Élysée Palace said the French president would continue his visit as scheduled.

Macron is the first Western European leader to visit Syria since the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s government in 2024. During his visit, he is holding talks with Syrian officials on post-war reconstruction, political stability, national unity, and the establishment of a pluralistic system.