Blasts Rock Damascus Near Hotel Designated for Macron's Visit
Several explosions were reported in Damascus on Tuesday, with plumes of smoke rising in the sky, according to Al Jazeera. The blasts occurred near a hotel where French President Emmanuel Macron was meant to stay during his official visit to the Syrian capital. Authorities immediately sealed off surrounding roads, and there were no immediate reports of casualties or the cause of the explosions.
Macron's Historic Visit to Syria
President Macron arrived in Damascus on Monday, marking the first official visit to Syria by a serving European Union head of state. In a post on X, Macron stated, "I have come to express France's commitment to the Syrian people. For a sovereign Syria, united in its diversity and at peace with its neighbours. Together, let us open a new chapter of stability and peace." His visit underscores France's support for a peaceful and united Syria.
Previous Attack in Central Damascus
Just days earlier, on July 3, a bomb blast ripped through a cafe in central Damascus near the Palace of Justice, killing five people and injuring 20 others. No group immediately claimed responsibility. Damascus Governor Maher Marwan Idlibi confirmed that an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) had been planted in the cafe. He stated that at least one suspect fleeing the area was pursued and captured. Idlibi noted that "bad actors" are trying to destabilise the country while the government works to rebuild and stabilise the economic and security situation. He did not categorise the attack as terrorism or link it to any proscribed organisation such as ISIL.
Security Concerns Amid Reconciliation Efforts
The explosions near Macron's hotel come amid heightened security concerns in Damascus. The French president's visit is seen as a significant diplomatic gesture, but the blasts highlight ongoing instability. The Syrian government has been striving to restore security and attract foreign investment, but sporadic attacks continue to challenge these efforts.
