Explosions Near Hotel Where French President Macron Stayed in Damascus

On Tuesday morning in Damascus, a series of explosions caused by explosive devices occurred near the hotel where French President Emmanuel Macron was staying during his historic visit to Syria. The presidential convoy had left the hotel shortly before the blasts took place. Syrian state television broadcast footage showing Macron safe and sound as he was received at the presidential palace by Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa.

The incident happened on the second day of Macron's visit, which is notable as the first by a major Western leader to Syria since the fall of Bashar al-Assad's regime in December 2024. The visit aims to strengthen diplomatic ties between France and the new Syrian government and to assess the regional security and political situation. Security sources confirmed the explosions occurred close to Macron's hotel but emphasized that the convoy had already departed the area.

No casualties or significant damage have been reported, and no group has claimed responsibility for the attack. Despite the security incident, Macron continued his visit as planned without any changes to his official schedule. During the week, he met with senior Syrian officials and regional leaders, including the Sultan of Oman, whom he recently hosted in Paris. This visit takes place amid ongoing diplomatic efforts to ease tensions and promote stability in the Middle East.