**Bombs Rock Damascus During Macron Visit**
Two explosions shook a busy area of Damascus on Tuesday, coinciding with the visit of French President Emmanuel Macron. The blasts occurred near the Four Seasons hotel, where Macron was staying, but his office reported that he was unaware of the incidents and proceeded with his scheduled meeting with Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa.
Local media, citing the Syrian Interior Ministry, reported that at least 18 individuals were wounded in the explosions, including four police officers. The blasts took place in a bustling area situated between the Tourism Ministry and the National Museum, just moments after Macron's convoy departed for the presidential palace.
According to a Syrian security source, the explosions were triggered by improvised explosive devices (IEDs) that were discovered by security personnel. Bomb disposal teams were in the process of defusing the devices when one detonated. One of the bombs was reportedly hidden inside a parked vehicle, while the other was concealed in a roadside trash bin, exploding near an ambulance where a crowd had gathered.
The Syrian Interior Ministry confirmed that the blasts occurred outside the security perimeter established for Macron's visit, indicating that there was no direct threat to the French president or his delegation. No group has claimed responsibility for the attacks as of yet.
The Elysee Palace stated that Macron was en route to his meeting with al-Sharaa at the time of the explosions and did not hear them. The French president's schedule remained unchanged following the incident. Images released later depicted Macron alongside al-Sharaa, engaging with other Syrian officials and military personnel.
This visit marks a significant moment, as it is the first by a head of state from the European Union to Damascus since the rise of jihadist leader al-Sharaa, who took control of Syria in December 2024. The timing of Macron’s visit and the subsequent bombings raise questions about security and stability in the region, particularly as international relations are being navigated in the context of the ongoing Syrian conflict.
As the situation develops, further updates are expected regarding the investigation into the bombings and the implications for diplomatic relations between France and Syria.