By Erestinah Jane | July 7, 2026
French President Emmanuel Macron was unharmed after two explosions struck central Damascus on Tuesday, July 7, as he undertook a landmark official visit to Syria, with the Élysée Palace confirming that his diplomatic programme would proceed as planned.
The blasts occurred while Macron was travelling to a bilateral meeting with Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa. According to Syrian state media, the explosions took place approximately 125 metres from the Four Seasons Hotel, where the French delegation was staying.
Seeking to allay concerns over the president’s safety, an official from the Élysée Palace said Macron was not affected by the incident.
“The president did not even hear the explosions. The official visit continues as planned.”
Syrian authorities said the twin explosions were caused by devices concealed inside a roadside dumpster and a vehicle. Initial reports indicated that at least 18 people were injured, including four police officers, while no fatalities had been confirmed in connection with the incident.
Despite the explosions, official engagements continued without interruption. Syrian state television broadcast footage of President Ahmed al-Sharaa welcoming Macron at the People’s Palace as smoke was seen rising over the city’s Halbuni district following the blasts.
The visit is regarded as a significant diplomatic milestone, making Macron the first European Union head of state to visit Syria since the overthrow of former President Bashar al-Assad in December 2024. The trip signals France’s renewed diplomatic engagement with the country’s transitional leadership as Syria seeks to rebuild after years of conflict.
Macron is accompanied by a delegation of senior French business leaders, including executives from energy company TotalEnergies and global shipping firm CMA CGM. The delegation is expected to participate in discussions on investment opportunities and Syria’s reconstruction, with French companies positioning themselves to take part in major infrastructure and economic recovery projects.
In addition to bilateral talks with the Syrian leadership, Macron is scheduled to attend a business forum focused on reconstruction and economic cooperation before departing for Turkey, where he is expected to participate in the NATO summit.
The explosions underscore the continuing security challenges facing Syria despite recent political changes. Authorities have launched investigations into the incident, while security remains heightened across Damascus as officials continue to host high-level international delegations.
Macron’s decision to proceed with his engagements despite the attack is expected to be viewed as a demonstration of France’s commitment to deepening diplomatic ties with Syria’s new leadership while supporting the country’s reconstruction and regional stabilization efforts.
