Macron Continues Syria Visit Despite Bombings Near Damascus Hotel

French President Emmanuel Macron maintained his planned schedule in Syria on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, even after two bomb explosions occurred near the hotel where he had spent the night in Damascus. The blasts, which injured 18 people according to Syrian authorities, did not alter the course of his historic visit.

The explosions reportedly took place in a garbage bin and a vehicle near the Four Seasons hotel, where Macron was staying. While the explosions happened close to the route of Macron's delegation, they occurred outside the security perimeter established by Syrian authorities. The security measures for the visit were described as extensive, with law enforcement officers stationed frequently and drones monitoring the area.

Macron, who arrived on Monday, July 6, for the landmark visit, proceeded with his planned meetings. On Tuesday morning, he held discussions with interim Syrian President Ahmed al-Charaa at the People's Palace. The French president's office stated that the explosions were intended to create noise and did not affect the president's program.

This visit marks a significant diplomatic engagement, with Macron being the first French president to visit Syria since the Syrian civil war began. The explosions underscore the volatile security situation in the region, even amidst high-level diplomatic efforts.