Explosion Near Macron's Hotel in Syria; France Confirms President Safe, Continues Itinerary

(CNA Damascus, July 7, Foreign News) French President Emmanuel Macron is on a historic visit to Syria. Just before his meeting with Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa today, an explosion was heard near the Four Seasons Hotel in Damascus where he is staying. The Élysée Palace has confirmed that Macron is safe and will continue his itinerary as planned.

Reuters reported that the Élysée Palace stated Macron and his convoy had already left the hotel at the time of the incident and did not hear the explosion. He met with al-Sharaa at the presidential palace shortly thereafter.

Reuters reporters heard explosions nearby and saw plumes of smoke rising. The surrounding roads were immediately blocked, and security measures were intensified.

The Associated Press reported that the explosion occurred near the Four Seasons Hotel where Macron is staying. Syrian authorities have not yet commented on the incident.

Syrian newspaper Al-Watan and Syria TV reported that two explosions occurred in Damascus city, with large amounts of smoke visible at the scene.

AFP quoted sources as reporting that one bomb was placed in a trash can, and another was placed in a vehicle near the Four Seasons Hotel.

Videos widely circulated on social media show a car on fire and bloodstains on the street.

The Syrian National News Agency reported that the explosions injured 18 people, including 4 police officers. No organization has claimed responsibility for the attack.

Macron is the first EU head of state to visit Damascus since rebels led by al-Sharaa overthrew former President Bashar al-Assad in 2024. (Compiled by Hong Pei-ying) 1150707

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