The visit marks the first by a European Union head of state since the 2024 overthrow of former President Bashar al-Assad by rebel forces led by al-Sharaa.
French President, Emmanuel Macron’s historic visit to Syria was overshadowed on Tuesday after multiple bomb explosions struck near the hotel where he was staying, highlighting the fragile security situation in the war-torn country.
Despite the explosions, the French presidency said Macron was unaware of the incident.
“The explosions were not audible from the presidential motorcade,” the Élysée Palace said, adding that the French leader continued with his scheduled engagements without disruption.
A Reuters journalist traveling with Macron’s delegation also reported hearing no explosions and witnessing no panic during the president’s morning activities.
Shortly after the incident, Macron met Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa at the Presidential Palace, according to Syrian state television.
The visit marks the first by a European Union head of state since the 2024 overthrow of former President Bashar al-Assad by rebel forces led by al-Sharaa.
Reuters witnesses at the scene reported hearing loud explosions and seeing smoke rising into the sky as security forces swiftly cordoned off affected areas.
Macron’s trip comes as Syria attempts to rebuild its international relationships under al-Sharaa, a former al-Qaeda commander who has since forged closer ties with several Western and Middle Eastern governments that had previously isolated the Assad regime.
The visit also underscores the country’s continuing security challenges. Syria remains vulnerable to attacks after more than a decade of civil war that saw extremist groups, including the Islamic State, establish strongholds across parts of the country.
Although al-Sharaa has pledged to establish an inclusive political system following the end of the Assad family’s more than five decades in power, his administration has faced repeated outbreaks of sectarian and ethnic violence.Â
Clashes involving pro-government forces and minority communities have left hundreds dead over the past year.Â
