Macron narrowly escapes Damascus blasts

French President Emmanuel Macron narrowly escaped a series of powerful explosions that rocked central Damascus on Tuesday, leaving at least 18 people injured and triggering a major security operation during his official visit to Syria.
The blasts occurred in a busy district near the Ministry of Tourism and a hotel where Macron had been scheduled to stay, sending thick plumes of black smoke over the Syrian capital and causing panic among residents and visitors.
Syrian authorities described the incident as a suspected terrorist attack and immediately launched an investigation to determine who was behind the explosions and whether the French delegation had been the intended target.
The Élysée Palace swiftly confirmed that Macron was safe and unharmed. A spokesperson said the French president was already travelling to the People’s Palace for talks with Syrian President Ahmed al-Shara when the explosions occurred.
“The President was never in immediate danger and did not even hear the blasts,” the spokesperson said, adding that Macron’s official programme would continue as planned despite the incident.
President al-Shara later formally welcomed Macron, and the two leaders proceeded with scheduled discussions focused on bilateral relations, regional security and efforts to strengthen diplomatic cooperation between France and Syria.
The attack, however, cast a shadow over the high-profile visit, underscoring the persistent security challenges facing Syria despite recent diplomatic outreach by several countries.
Witnesses reported hearing multiple explosions in quick succession, followed by the arrival of ambulances, fire engines and security personnel. Images and videos shared on social media showed emergency crews responding to damaged buildings as smoke billowed over the affected area.
A Syrian security official said investigators were examining all possible scenarios, including whether the attackers intended to strike Macron’s convoy or target another location in the crowded district. Authorities have cordoned off the blast sites and are conducting forensic examinations while reviewing surveillance footage and collecting evidence.
No group had claimed responsibility for the attack as of Tuesday evening.
Health officials said at least 18 people were injured and taken to nearby hospitals for treatment. The authorities have not yet disclosed the severity of their injuries or whether any foreign nationals were among the victims.
Macron’s visit was intended to mark a new phase in French-Syrian engagement after years of strained relations and to discuss regional stability, humanitarian cooperation and security issues.
Following the conclusion of his meetings in Damascus, the French president is expected to travel to Ankara to attend the NATO summit, where the conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine are expected to dominate discussions among alliance leaders.
French officials have not indicated whether Tuesday’s security incident will alter future diplomatic engagements in the region, saying Macron’s itinerary remains unchanged while Syrian authorities continue their investigation into the explosions.