Explosion occurs at a café near the Palace of Justice in Damascus

On July 2, 2026, a powerful explosion occurred at a café located in the center of Damascus, near the Palace of Justice. Syrian security sources and state media confirmed the incident, reporting that there were casualties among the people present at the scene. Emergency services, including ambulances, were dispatched to the area immediately following the blast. As of now, the exact cause of the explosion remains unknown, with authorities investigating whether it was triggered by an improvised explosive device or a suicide attack. Different sources have provided varying accounts regarding the number of casualties, with some reports citing multiple deaths and others simply noting injuries. Traffic in the vicinity was disrupted as emergency crews cleared the area. Official state news agency SANA has stated that investigators are currently working to determine the precise nature and origin of the event.