French President Emmanuel Macron remained unharmed following two bomb explosions in central Damascus on July 7, 2026. The Syrian government reported that the blasts injured eighteen individuals near the Four Seasons hotel, where Macron was staying and meeting with civil society groups.
Details of the Explosions in Damascus
The explosions occurred near the Four Seasons hotel, where Macron had spent the night. According to the Syrian interior ministry, security forces discovered two explosive devices in a parked car and a bin. These devices detonated as specialists attempted to defuse them, as reported by state news agency Sana.
French officials confirmed that Macron did not hear the explosions and proceeded to meet with Syrian leader Ahmed al-Sharaa shortly after. No group has claimed responsibility for the attacks, but an initial lead regarding those responsible has been identified, according to a spokesman for the Syrian interior ministry.
Eyewitness Accounts and Immediate Reactions
Eyewitnesses described the chaos following the blasts. One individual reported standing near the ministry of tourism when the first explosion occurred, followed by a second explosion just meters away. The first blast caused material damage but no immediate casualties, while the second explosion resulted in injuries to several members of the public security forces and traffic police.
The Syrian interior ministry confirmed that four police officers were among the injured. Spokesman Nour al-Din al-Baba stated that the explosive devices were planted shortly before the blasts, just outside the security perimeter designated for Macron's accommodation.
Macron's Response and the Significance of His Visit
Despite the security incident, Macron expressed his commitment to continuing the visit. On social media, he stated: "Nothing can smother the aspiration of Syrian women and men to live in a fully sovereign, safe, pluralistic, and united Syria." He emphasized the dignity and determination he witnessed during his meetings.
During a joint news conference with Sharaa, Macron reiterated the need to support those injured by the bombings while maintaining strong security measures. His visit also aimed to address Syria's pressing economic challenges, with a focus on reconstruction. Macron was accompanied by French business leaders, and they signed 15 bilateral agreements across various sectors, including civil aviation, health, and banking.
This visit marks a significant moment as it is the first by an EU leader since the fall of the Assad regime in 2024. Sharaa, a former al-Qaeda commander, has pledged to unify a nation still grappling with the aftermath of a brutal civil war.
🤖 This article was rewritten by Feed and Figures' editorial AI from a report originally published by BBC News. Facts and quotes are preserved from the original; the rewrite focuses on clarity and structure. For the unedited original, see the source link below.
