French President Emmanuel Macron (l.) visits Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa (r.). Image: keystone
July 7, 2026, 3:24 p.mJuly 7, 2026, 3:24 p.m
There were two explosions in the capital Damascus during French President Emmanuel Macron’s visit to Syria. As the state news agency Sana reported, citing the Syrian Interior Ministry, 18 people were injured, including four police officers.
Late on Monday evening, Macron became the first head of state of an EU member state to visit Syria since 2010. Despite reports of the explosions, Sana reported that Macron is currently meeting with Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa at the presidential palace. The Élysée Palace in Paris said President Macron was doing well. He is in the Syrian presidential palace, where extended talks are underway with delegations from both countries.
The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reported that an explosion was initially heard. A few seconds later, a second, stronger detonation was heard near the hotel where Macron is staying, according to the Observatory. The explosions caused concern among the city’s residents.
Syrian authorities are examining vehicles burned in the explosion near the Four Seasons Hotel, where the French president is staying.Image: keystone
Explosive device in the car and in the dumpster
According to the Interior Ministry, security forces discovered two explosive devices during an operation. Specialized units then began preparations to defuse the attack. However, the two explosive devices exploded during the work. Special teams then initiated searches and security measures in the area.
According to initial investigations, one of the explosive devices was placed in a car parked on the side of the road and the second in a garbage container. Rescue workers and ambulances were immediately driven to the scene, the observatory reported. In addition, security forces cordoned off the surrounding area. The Interior Ministry further said that investigations were ongoing to clarify the background to the incident and identify those responsible. It was also said that the site of the explosion was outside the security area of the French president’s accommodation and did not pose a direct threat to the accommodation or the ongoing visit program. (nil/sda/dpa)