Syria Arrests Cell Linked to Bombings During Macron's Visit

Syrian security forces have apprehended a cell believed to be responsible for two bomb explosions that occurred in Damascus earlier this week, coinciding with the visit of French President Emmanuel Macron. The Syrian Interior Ministry announced the arrests on Friday, stating that the group was taken into custody following a series of coordinated raids across the capital and its environs.

"The cell responsible for the terrorist bombings that targeted Damascus two days ago is now in our custody," Syrian Interior Minister Anas Khattab posted on the social media platform X. He added that once investigations are complete, the identities, roles, affiliations, and connections of the cell members will be revealed to the public.

The explosions took place near the Four Seasons Hotel, where Macron was staying, shortly after he had departed. The attacks resulted in one fatality and injured 36 people. A security official cited by Reuters indicated that preliminary findings point to a link between the arrested individuals and the Islamic State (IS) terror organization.

Syrian security forces were seen investigating a burnt-out vehicle near the hotel in the aftermath of the blasts. The swift arrests aim to address the security concerns raised by the attacks, particularly given the presence of a high-profile international dignitary.

“

The cell responsible for the terrorist bombings that targeted Damascus two days ago is now in our custody. As soon as the investigations are completed, we will reveal to the public the identities of the members of this cell, their roles, as well as all their affiliations and connections.