Image: from News.Az X @news_az
By Open Chronicle with Agencies
At least 18 people were injured on Tuesday after two explosions struck near the Syrian Ministry of Tourism and close to the hotel where French President Emmanuel Macron was staying during his landmark visit to Damascus, Syrian state media reported.
According to the Syrian Arab News Agency (SANA), four police officers were among those injured. Emergency services quickly responded to the scene as security forces sealed off surrounding roads and launched an investigation into the blasts.
Video captured the moment of one of at least two explosions in Syria’s capital Damascus on Tuesday, near a hotel where France’s President Emmanuel Macron was staying on an official visit. pic.twitter.com/8iOpWEuw0N
— Al Jazeera English (@AJEnglish) July 7, 2026
Security Incident During Historic Visit
Reuters journalists in Damascus reported hearing two explosions and seeing smoke rising from the area shortly after the incident. Security authorities immediately tightened protective measures around the affected district.
Despite the explosions, the French presidency stated that President Macron was never in immediate danger.
The Élysée Palace said the blasts were not audible from the presidential motorcade, while journalists traveling with the French delegation also reported hearing no explosions or witnessing any disruption during Macron’s scheduled engagements.
Meeting With Syrian President Goes Ahead
#Syria: Macron's official visit continues this morning as planned, with a reception at the Presidential Palace, despite the terror attack.
The IEDs were concealed in a trash bin and a vehicle.
The explosions occurred near the Ministry of Tourism, an area also close to the Four… https://t.co/b9SkoXpyZg pic.twitter.com/AXSTs1H2XR
— Qalaat Al Mudiq (@QalaatAlMudiq) July 7, 2026
The incident did not prevent Macron from continuing his official program.
State television later confirmed that the French president met Syrian President Ahmed al Sharaa at the Presidential Palace as planned.
The visit marks a historic diplomatic milestone, making Macron the first European Union head of state to visit Syria since the 2024 overthrow of former President Bashar al-Assad by rebel forces led by Ahmed al-Sharaa.
Syria’s Ongoing Security Challenges
The explosions serve as a reminder that Syria continues to face significant security challenges despite the country’s changing political landscape.
Since taking power, President Ahmed al Sharaa has sought to normalize relations with Western and Middle Eastern governments after years of international isolation under Assad. His administration has prioritized reconstruction and diplomatic engagement following more than a decade of devastating civil war.
Macron’s visit is widely viewed as part of broader international efforts to support Syria’s political transition and economic recovery.
Authorities have not yet identified those responsible for the explosions, and investigations remain ongoing.