At least 18 people were injured after two explosions struck near the Four Seasons Hotel in Damascus on Tuesday, where French President Emmanuel Macron was reportedly staying during his official visit to Syria. The blasts occurred while Macron was meeting Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa at the presidential palace.
According to Syrian authorities, two improvised explosive devices (IEDs) exploded near the heavily guarded hotel, which is known for hosting UN staff and foreign diplomats. The attack did not interrupt Macron’s visit, and Syrian state media later released photos of the French and Syrian leaders meeting as planned.
Macron’s visit is considered historic, as he is the first major Western leader to visit Syria since the fall of former President Bashar al-Assad in December 2024. During the meeting, France and Syria agreed to restore diplomatic relations by appointing ambassadors for the first time since ties were cut in 2012.
The French president was accompanied by a business delegation, and several agreements were signed to support Syria’s recovery. The deals include rebuilding water and electricity infrastructure, improving Damascus International Airport, assisting Syria’s central bank, and returning millions of pounds in illicit assets linked to Rifaat al-Assad.
Syrian officials have launched an investigation into the explosions, but no group has claimed responsibility so far. The incident highlights the ongoing security challenges facing Syria as the country continues efforts to rebuild after years of conflict while seeking foreign investment and international support.
