Syrian authorities have confirmed that at least one person died and 36 others were wounded following explosions in the capital city of Damascus on Tuesday. The blasts occurred while French President Emmanuel Macron was conducting an official visit to the country. According to an updated report from the Syrian Ministry of Health, released on Wednesday, most of those wounded sustained minor injuries, while five individuals remain hospitalized in stable condition.
The explosions targeted central Damascus, occurring near the Ministry of Tourism and the Four Seasons Hotel. Al Jazeera’s Obaida Hitto reported that the location is highly sensitive, particularly as President Macron had stayed at the same hotel only the previous night. The Syrian Ministry of Interior stated that the devices were planted strategically; one was concealed inside a parked car, while the second was placed in a rubbish bin. The bombs reportedly detonated while security forces were in the process of dismantling them.
Despite the security breach, President Macron continued his scheduled diplomatic engagements. He condemned the violence, stating that Syria must not be destabilized by such acts of terrorism. The explosions coincided with a high-level meeting between Macron and Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa at the presidential palace. No group has immediately claimed responsibility for the attack, though officials are actively investigating the incident.
The security situation in Damascus has been a focal point of international concern for years, given the ongoing conflict within the country. While the capital has remained relatively stable in recent times compared to the earlier years of the Syrian war, this incident highlights the persistent threat of clandestine sabotage. Security agencies have significantly increased their presence across the city following the explosions to ensure the safety of remaining diplomatic delegations.
As international attention turns to regional stability and the upcoming NATO summit in Turkey, the attack serves as a stark reminder of the complexities surrounding the Syrian political landscape. Observers remain cautious as the government attempts to maintain control over the capital while managing the fallout from such security failures. The investigation into the perpetrators is ongoing, and further updates on the security measures implemented in Damascus are expected in the coming days.
