Explosions Rock Damascus During Macron’s Historic Visit

​DAMASCUS – French President Emmanuel Macron remains unharmed following a security incident in the Syrian capital on Tuesday morning, as two explosive devices detonated near the Four Seasons Hotel. The blasts, which left at least 18 people wounded, occurred while the French leader was meeting with his Syrian counterpart, President Ahmed al-Sharaa, at the presidential palace.

​The incident marks a stark reminder of the fragile security environment in Syria, even as the nation attempts to project an image of stability under its new leadership. Despite the violence, the Élysée Palace confirmed that the French president’s itinerary continues as planned, with Macron expected to depart for a NATO summit in Ankara, Turkey, later today.

​A Diplomatic Milestone Under Pressure

​Macron’s visit—the first by a Western European head of state since the collapse of the Bashar al-Assad regime in December 2024—was intended to signal France’s commitment to supporting a sovereign and pluralistic Syria. The French delegation, which includes top business leaders from firms such as TotalEnergies and CMA CGM, is focused on exploring reconstruction efforts and strengthening bilateral ties.

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​”Nothing can smother the aspiration of Syrian women and men to live in a fully sovereign, safe, pluralistic, and united Syria,” Macron wrote in a social media statement following the explosions.

​Security Concerns Persist

​While authorities have yet to identify a culprit for the attack, the use of improvised explosive devices in a high-security zone highlights the persistent volatility of the capital. The Four Seasons Hotel is widely considered one of the best-guarded facilities in Damascus, serving as a hub for international diplomats and United Nations personnel.

​Tuesday’s attack follows a deadly bombing at a crowded cafe near the Justice Palace just last week, which claimed at least 10 lives.

​The New Syrian Administration

​President Ahmed al-Sharaa, who assumed office in early 2025 following the end of Assad’s 24-year rule, has been working aggressively to rehabilitate Syria’s international reputation. Formerly known by his nom de guerre Abu Mohammad al-Julani, the president has sought to distance his administration from his background as a former militant commander.

​The meeting between Macron and al-Sharaa is viewed by analysts as a significant diplomatic endorsement of the current administration. For the Syrian government, the visit represents a crucial step in normalizing relations with European powers and securing the investment needed to rebuild a nation devastated by over a decade of civil war.

​Despite the shadow cast by the explosions, the two leaders proceeded with their scheduled talks, signaling a mutual desire to move forward with the transition process as the international community watches closely.