Damascus, July 7: Multiple explosions shook the Syrian capital Damascus on Tuesday during French President Emmanuel Macron’s landmark visit to Syria, in an incident that highlighted the country’s fragile security situation despite ongoing international efforts to support its post-war transition.

The explosions occurred near the Four Seasons Hotel, where President Macron had been staying, shortly after his motorcade departed for the presidential palace to meet Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa. Syrian authorities said the blasts took place near the Ministry of Tourism in central Damascus.

At Least 18 Injured

According to Syria’s Interior Ministry, 18 people were injured, including four police officers, after two improvised explosive devices detonated. Officials said bomb disposal teams were attempting to neutralise the devices when the explosions occurred. Authorities have launched an investigation, and no group has claimed responsibility so far.

Macron Unharmed, Visit Continues

The French Presidency (Élysée Palace) confirmed that President Macron was not harmed and did not even hear the explosions because his convoy had already reached the presidential palace.

Despite the security incident, Macron continued his scheduled meeting with President Ahmed al-Sharaa, and the remainder of his official programme proceeded without changes.

Historic Visit to Syria

Earlier in the day, Macron and President Ahmed al-Sharaa visited the historic Umayyad Mosque in Damascus before holding bilateral talks.

The visit is historically significant as Macron became the first European Union leader to visit Syria since the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s government in 2024. His trip is aimed at supporting Syria’s reconstruction, encouraging political transition, and strengthening diplomatic engagement with the country’s new leadership.

Security Challenges Persist

The bombing underscores the continuing security challenges facing Syria despite the formation of a new government. The incident comes just days after another deadly bombing in Damascus, highlighting the persistent threat posed by extremist groups and other armed actors operating in the country.

Syrian security forces have tightened security across the capital as investigations continue to determine who was responsible for the attack. Officials have not indicated whether the explosions were specifically intended to target the French delegation.