Damascus Blasts Wound 18 During Macron Visit as Syria Signs 12-Plus Deals With France
Updated
Updated · FRANCE 24 English · Jul 7
Damascus Blasts Wound 18 During Macron Visit as Syria Signs 12-Plus Deals With France
3 articles · Updated · FRANCE 24 English · Jul 7
Summary
At least 18 people were wounded in two explosions in Damascus while Emmanuel Macron met President Ahmad al-Sharaa at the presidential palace; Macron was unharmed and the talks continued.
The Interior Ministry said one device was planted in a garbage bin and another in a parked car near the Four Seasons Hotel, the Tourism Ministry and the National Museum; four police officers were among the injured.
No group immediately claimed responsibility, and the attack marked the second bombing in Damascus in a week after a cafe blast on Thursday killed at least 10 and wounded more than 20.
Macron later said the violence would not derail hopes for a sovereign and pluralistic Syria, as Paris and Damascus signed more than a dozen agreements tied to reconstruction, financial reform and airport cargo infrastructure.
The bombing underscored the security challenge facing Syria's new rulers as they seek Western backing and investment for a country that still needs hundreds of billions of dollars to rebuild after 14 years of war.
Can Syria's new leader, a former jihadist, secure his own capital from such brazen attacks?
Damascus blasts: A ghost attack by ISIS or a violent message from Iran-backed militias?
July 2026 Damascus Explosions Amid Macron Visit: Implications for Syrian Stability and International Engagement
Overview
On July 7, 2026, twin explosions struck central Damascus near the Four Seasons Hotel, plunging the city into chaos during French President Macron’s historic visit. Dramatic footage of burning vehicles and blood-stained streets quickly spread on social media, highlighting the severity of the attacks. In the immediate aftermath, the extent of damage and casualties was unclear, and no group claimed responsibility, fueling confusion. Despite the turmoil, President Macron continued with his diplomatic agenda, signaling resilience. The blasts underscored ongoing security challenges in Syria, raising concerns about stability and the country’s efforts to rebuild and rejoin the international community.