MOSCOW, July 7 (HS/RIA Novosti) - Several explosive devices went off in Damascus near the hotel where French President Emmanuel Macron was meant to be staying, Reuters reported on Tuesday, citing a security source.

 

Security measures were taken following the blast.

 

French President Emmanuel Macron had arrived in Damascus earlier in the day for talks with Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa aimed at discussing regional security, reconstruction efforts and bilateral relations. According to media reports, Macron had entered the presidential palace for the meeting when the explosions occurred near the Four Seasons Hotel, where Syrian media said the French delegation was staying. Syrian authorities did not immediately comment on the incident.

 

Local media, including Al-Watan newspaper and Syria TV, reported that two explosions were heard in central Damascus, with a large plume of smoke rising from the area. Videos circulating on social media showed a vehicle engulfed in flames and bloodstains on the street. There was no immediate confirmation of casualties, and no group claimed responsibility for the blasts.

 

The incident comes just days after an explosive device detonated at a café near Damascus' Justice Palace, killing at least 10 people and injuring around 20, underscoring persistent security challenges in the Syrian capital despite ongoing efforts to stabilize the country.