Security Scare in Damascus as Explosions Hit Near Macron’s Hotel

July 7 () — Multiple explosions struck central Damascus on Tuesday near the hotel hosting French President Emmanuel Macron, prompting a sweeping security operation during the French leader’s historic visit to Syria.

reports that the blasts, heard across several parts of the Syrian capital shortly, sent security forces rushing to the scene as roads leading to the hotel district were sealed off and emergency services deployed.

Witnesses reported seeing security personnel establishing cordons around the area while investigators searched for evidence.

Syrian security sources said the explosions were caused by a number of explosive devices detonated near the hotel where Macron was staying. Authorities, however, said it was too early to determine the motive or whether the French President was the intended target.

There was no immediate official confirmation of casualties or the extent of damage, while Syrian officials withheld further details pending the outcome of preliminary investigations.

The incident unfolded as Macron wrapped up a two-day visit widely regarded as a diplomatic breakthrough for Syria’s transitional government.

His trip marked the first official visit by a serving European Union leader since the overthrow of former President Bashar al-Assad in December 2024.

During his stay, Macron held talks with Syria’s interim President, Ahmed al-Sharaa, focusing on reconstruction, humanitarian assistance, counterterrorism cooperation and the country’s reintegration into the international community after years of civil war and diplomatic isolation.

While both leaders projected optimism over Syria’s political transition, Tuesday’s explosions served as a reminder that security remains one of the country’s biggest challenges.

The attack comes less than a week after a bomb ripped through a café near Damascus’ Palace of Justice, killing at least nine people and injuring about 20 others.

Syrian authorities blamed that attack on terrorists, saying an improvised explosive device packed with metal fragments had been planted inside the premises.

However, security has remained tight across central Damascus, with checkpoints reinforced around government institutions, diplomatic facilities and major hotels.

Bomb disposal teams and forensic investigators continued examining the blast sites as authorities searched for those responsible.

Neither the Syrian presidency nor the French government reported any injuries involving the French delegation, and Macron’s office had not indicated that the visit was disrupted.