Explosive devices detonate in Damascus during Macron visit
Al Jazeera reported that at least two blasts hit Damascus near a hotel linked to the French president’s visit, with roads sealed and an inquiry under way.
By Sofia Marchetti · World Affairs Correspondent
2 min read
At least two explosive devices detonated in Damascus on Tuesday while French President Emmanuel Macron was visiting Syria, according to Al Jazeera. The blasts raised security concerns around a rare high-level diplomatic visit to the Syrian capital.
Al Jazeera reported that television footage showed smoke rising over the city after the explosions. Images from the scene carried by Reuters showed smoke and fire at a site where explosive devices had gone off, according to the broadcaster.
A security official told Al Jazeera that the explosions took place in an area crowded with civilians. The official described the incident as a criminal act and said casualties were feared, though no confirmed toll was reported.
Al Jazeera said footage shared online and verified by the network showed a vehicle burning after the blasts. Authorities closed roads in the area, and an investigation was under way, the broadcaster reported.
Blasts near hotel and ministry
Al Jazeera’s correspondent reported that the explosions happened near Syria’s Ministry of Tourism and close to a hotel where Macron was expected to stay during his visit to Damascus. Macron was in the capital for talks with Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa, according to Al Jazeera.
Macron’s office said the French president was on his way to meet al-Sharaa when the explosions occurred, Al Jazeera reported. The office said Macron did not hear the blasts and that his visit continued as planned.
Al Jazeera correspondent Obaida Hitto reported from the presidential palace that conditions there were calm after the explosions. The broadcaster did not report any change to Macron’s schedule beyond the statement from his office.
Second Damascus blast in a week
The incident followed another deadly explosion in central Damascus last week. Syria’s Ministry of Health said that blast, at a cafe, killed at least nine people and wounded 20 others, according to Al Jazeera.
No group was reported by Al Jazeera to have claimed responsibility for Tuesday’s explosions. The broadcaster said the investigation by Syrian authorities was continuing.
This story draws on original reporting from Al Jazeera.