Explosions Rock Damascus During Macron’s Historic Syria Visit

Bombs exploded near the hotel where French President Emmanuel Macron was staying in Damascus on Tuesday, according to a security source, though the Elysee said Macron did not hear the blasts. He went on to meet Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa shortly after the incident.

Witnesses Report Smoke and Explosions

A Reuters witness heard explosions and saw smoke rising near the blast site. Authorities sealed off roads and implemented security measures in the area. A journalist traveling with Macron’s press group said no commotion was heard or seen during his morning schedule.

First EU Head of State Visit Since Assad’s Fall

Macron is the first head of state from a European Union country to visit Syria since rebels led by Sharaa toppled Bashar al-Assad in 2024. The visit highlights Syria’s shifting position on the world stage under Sharaa, a former al-Qaeda commander who has built ties with Western and Middle Eastern powers that previously avoided Assad’s government.

Syria Still Faces Security Challenges

Sharaa, who belongs to Syria’s Sunni Muslim majority, has promised to build an inclusive government after ending decades of Assad family rule. However, his administration has faced repeated violence between pro-government forces and religious and ethnic minority groups, with hundreds killed in clashes last year.