DAMASCUS – Explosions were reported near the hotel where French President Emmanuel Macron was staying during his official visit to the Syrian capital, Damascus, prompting heightened security measures across the area.
Reports said the blasts occurred near the hotel after explosive devices detonated close to the site. Security forces immediately cordoned off the affected area and closed nearby roads as part of precautionary measures.
Witnesses, according to reports, said the sound of the explosions was heard from a considerable distance, while smoke was seen rising from the location.
However, French officials stated that President Macron remained safe and that his official engagements continued as scheduled. The French presidency also said the explosions did not reach the presidential convoy.
Shortly after the incident, President Macron met Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa at the presidential palace in Damascus. The two leaders discussed Syria’s political situation, bilateral relations, and regional security during their meeting.
The visit is considered historically significant as it marks the first official trip to Syria by a European Union head of state since the end of Bashar al-Assad’s government.
According to the report, Syria’s new administration continues to face major challenges, including rebuilding the country, restoring law and order, and strengthening trust among different religious and ethnic communities.
President Ahmed al-Sharaa has pledged to establish an inclusive and representative political system following his assumption of office, although intermittent violence continues to affect the process.
No group has claimed responsibility for the explosions so far, and Syrian authorities have launched an investigation into the incident.
