Explosions reported in Damascus during President Macron's visit

On July 7, 2026, security sources reported that multiple explosive devices detonated near a hotel in Damascus, Syria, where French President Emmanuel Macron was staying. The purpose of President Macron’s visit was to discuss the strengthening of bilateral relations and matters of mutual interest between France and Syria. This visit follows the regime change in Syria that occurred in late 2024, when Bashar al-Assad was ousted from power and replaced by Ahmed al-Sara. The visit, announced by the Syrian presidency on July 5, 2026, was intended to include a roundtable meeting between President Macron, President al-Sara, and various delegations. President Macron was accompanied by a group of investors and representatives from French companies. While reports from July 5 initially lacked a specific date for the arrival, the explosions took place during the scheduled visit on July 7, 2026. No casualties or specific injuries were confirmed in the initial reports regarding the detonations.