At least 18 people were injured after two explosions struck the Syrian capital during French President Emmanuel Macron’s visit. The Damascus blasts during Macron visit occurred near a hotel where the French leader was meeting representatives of Syrian civil society, according to Syrian state media. The incident prompted an immediate security response while Macron’s official schedule continued as planned.
According to international media reports, four police officers were among those injured in the explosions. Emergency services rushed to the scene to assist the wounded, while security personnel sealed off the surrounding area to prevent further risks and facilitate rescue operations.
Officials said the first explosion occurred shortly after President Macron’s convoy departed the hotel and headed toward the presidential palace. Although the blast happened nearby, French officials stated that neither Macron nor members of his delegation were directly affected by the incident.
Breaking: The death toll from the explosions in the Syrian capital, Damascus, has risen to three, with dozens of people also injured, coinciding with the French President’s visit to #Syria.
Terrorism Strikes #Damascus Again. pic.twitter.com/gTspMucnu4
— Mohammad Alasakra (@mohammed_asakra) July 7, 2026
The second explosion reportedly took place near an ambulance that was parked close to the scene, where around two dozen people had gathered. Witnesses reported seeing flames and thick black smoke rising near nearby shops following the blasts, adding to the panic in the area.
Syrian security forces launched a search operation to identify those responsible for the explosions. Authorities expanded security measures across the area, increased patrols, and began collecting evidence as part of the ongoing investigation into the incident.
Meanwhile, the French presidency said the sound of the explosions did not reach Macron’s convoy. Officials added that journalists accompanying the president did not observe any emergency situation that affected the French delegation during the visit.
President Macron later confirmed through a post on X that his visit to Syria would continue as scheduled. The incident has drawn international attention, with investigators working to determine the cause of the explosions while security remains heightened across parts of Damascus.