DAMASCUS, July 7, 2026 — Two explosive devices detonated near the Four Seasons Hotel in central Damascus on Tuesday morning, wounding at least 18 people, including four police officers, according to Syria’s state news agency SANA.
The blasts occurred in a busy area between the Ministry of Tourism and the National Museum, directly across from the hotel where French President Emmanuel Macron had been staying. One device reportedly exploded in a trash bin, with another nearby, sending flames and thick black smoke into the air. Witnesses and Reuters journalists on the scene reported hearing the explosions and seeing emergency responders at work.
Macron was not at the hotel at the time of the attacks. His motorcade had departed shortly before the first blast for a meeting at the presidential palace with Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa. The French president’s office confirmed he was safe, did not hear the explosions, and that his visit would continue as planned.
Syrian authorities sealed off roads around the area and launched an investigation. No group has claimed responsibility for the attack.
Macron’s trip marks the first visit by a major Western leader to Syria since rebels ousted longtime ruler Bashar al-Assad in December 2024. The French president arrived in Damascus on Monday evening with a business delegation to discuss reconstruction, investment opportunities, and regional security issues.
The incident comes just days after another bombing in central Damascus. On or around July 2, an explosive device detonated at a crowded cafe near the Palace of Justice, killing at least nine people and wounding around 20 others.
Syria continues to face significant security challenges during its political transition under the new authorities led by al-Sharaa.
The attacks underscore the fragile security situation in the capital despite the political changes following the end of Assad’s rule.
Further updates are expected as investigations proceed.
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