Blasts Occur Near Macron's Hotel During Landmark Meeting
Explosions rocked Damascus on Tuesday as French President Emmanuel Macron met with Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa at the presidential palace. The blasts occurred near the Four Seasons Hotel, where Macron was reportedly staying, according to Syrian state media.
The French president's office confirmed that Macron was safe and that his visit to Syria would continue as planned. Syrian authorities did not immediately comment on the incident.
Details of the Explosions
State media, citing an unnamed security official, reported that two explosive devices detonated in the heart of the capital. A large plume of smoke was visible from the site. Social media footage showed a vehicle on fire and blood stains on the street.
No immediate reports of casualties were available, and no group claimed responsibility for the attack.
Context of Recent Violence
The explosions come days after an explosive device was detonated in a cafe near the Justice Palace in Damascus, killing at least 10 people and wounding 20. The latest incident highlights ongoing security challenges in the Syrian capital despite relative calm in recent years.
Macron's visit to Syria was intended to signal renewed diplomatic engagement with the Assad government, which remains isolated by many Western nations. The meeting with President al-Sharaa was the first by a French leader in over a decade.
