Explosions in Syrian capital raise security concerns during Macron visit
13 oC
13 oC
Güneşli
13 oC
Güneşli
Explosions were heard in the Syrian capital on Tuesday, sending plumes of smoke rising over parts of the city and triggering a major security response as French President Emmanuel Macron continued his historic visit to Syria.
Television footage and eyewitness accounts showed smoke billowing into the sky above Damascus shortly after the blasts. Authorities immediately cordoned off several roads and deployed security forces to the affected area as emergency services responded to the scene.
The cause of the explosions was not immediately known, and Syrian officials had not released information regarding casualties or damage as investigations continued. Initial reports indicated that the blasts occurred near a hotel where Macron was expected to stay during his visit to the Syrian capital.
According to media reports from Damascus, at least two explosions were heard in the vicinity of the hotel, prompting heightened security measures around locations associated with the French delegation. Syrian authorities have not yet confirmed whether the explosions directly targeted any diplomatic or government facilities.
The incident comes during Macron's landmark visit to Syria, the first by a French president in nearly two decades and the first by a major Western leader since the country's political transition in 2024. During his trip, Macron is scheduled to meet Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa and discuss reconstruction, economic cooperation, regional security and Syria's reintegration into the international community.
The explosions also come less than a week after a deadly bombing at a café in central Damascus that killed several people and raised concerns about security in the capital. Syrian authorities said that attack was caused by an improvised explosive device, while investigations into those responsible remain ongoing.
No group has claimed responsibility for Tuesday's explosions, and officials have not indicated whether the incident was linked to terrorism, military activity, or another cause. Security forces maintained a heavy presence in the area as investigators worked to determine the source of the blasts.
Further details are expected as Syrian authorities continue their investigation. (ILKHA)
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