Explosions near Macron's hotel in Damascus injure 18; French president safe

Explosions rocked Damascus on Tuesday, injuring at least 18 people, as French President Emmanuel Macron began his visit to the Syrian capital. The blasts occurred near the Four Seasons hotel where Macron is staying, according to an AFP source. Smoke billowed over the city, as reported by Al Jazeera.

Macron's office confirmed he is safe and that the visit proceeds as scheduled. At the time of the explosions, Macron was meeting with Syrian leader Ahmed al-Sharaa at the presidential palace. Images shared on Telegram showed the two leaders shaking hands.

This visit is significant as it marks the first time a Western European head of state has met with al-Sharaa since he assumed leadership in 2024, following a swift offensive that ousted long-time dictator Bashar al-Assad. Macron's stated aim for the visit is to advocate for "a free, pluralistic Syria" and help de-escalate regional tensions.

Macron was reportedly en route to Turkey for a NATO summit following his engagements in Damascus. The Syrian Interior Ministry stated that four police officers were among the injured. This incident follows another powerful explosion in Damascus last week that claimed several lives.