Explosions Rock Damascus During French President Visit

July 7, 2026 4:52 am

DAMASCUS, Syria (AP) — Explosions rocked Damascus shortly after French President Emmanuel Macron entered the presidential palace to meet Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa, wounding at least four people. Syrian authorities did not immediately comment on the incident. Two explosions happened near the Four Seasons Hotel, where Syrian media reported that Macron was staying. The French president’s office said he was safe and that his visit to Syria was continuing. Citing an unnamed security official, state media reported that the two blasts in the heart of the capital were caused by explosive devices. No group immediately claimed responsibility. The incident comes days after an explosive device was detonated in a cafe near the Justice Palace, killing at least 10 people.