18 injured in Damascus blasts during Macron's visit to Syria

French President Emmanuel Macron entered the presidential palace in Damascus to meet Syrian President Bashar Al‑Sharaa when a series of explosions rocked the area around the Four Seasons Hotel, a luxury property that has long been a hub for international diplomats. The blasts occurred within minutes of the French leader’s arrival, sending shock waves through the capital’s historic district and prompting an immediate evacuation of nearby government buildings.

Security officials reported that the explosions were caused by a small improvised device, though the exact motive remains unclear. No casualties have been confirmed, and the French delegation was unharmed. Syrian authorities, alongside French security teams, cordoned off the site and conducted a preliminary investigation, while the presidential palace’s security detail was reinforced to prevent any further incidents.

The event underscores the volatile security environment in Damascus, even amid diplomatic engagements. Both the French and Syrian governments have reiterated their commitment to maintaining safety for foreign officials, and the incident is being examined by international security experts to assess potential threats to diplomatic missions in the region.