Syria Twin Explosion: Bomb Attacks Near Macron's Hotel Raises Security Concerns

Two powerful explosions were reported near the Ministry of Tourism and the Four Seasons Hotel in Damascus, the capital of Syria, on July 7.

According to Syria’s Ministry of the Interior, at least 18 people have been injured, including the Syrian government's tourism minister. French President Emmanuel Macron was also staying at this hotel. Macron is in Damascus at the invitation of Syrian President Al-Shara. 

Reports say, the twin improvised explosive devices (IEDs) were hidden in a parked car and a garbage bin. They detonated while security forces were attempting to safely dismantle them.

According to sources, as Macron was leaving the hotel to meet with Al Sharaa, a loud explosion was heard outside the hotel. 

Explosion outside Macron's hotel

The explosion outside Macron's hotel was caused by a car bomb. A red car was parked outside the hotel and then detonated. 

Meanwhile, Syrian police have intensified their investigation. Macron is the first EU leader to visit Syria during the Al-Shara government. Macron was on a two day visit to Damascus. This was the last day of his visit.

According to reports, the explosions occurred in a posh area of Damascus. The sound of the two simultaneous explosions was heard across Damascus. Before the explosions, French President Emmanuel Macron had spent some time at the Four Seasons Hotel in Damascus on Tuesday morning, discussing the diversity of Syria with Syrian civil society.

Security Challenges Continue in Syria

According to Syrian media, the blasts occurred in central Damascus, with flames and thick smoke rising into the sky after the explosions. 

Reports also said that the first explosion occurred shortly after Macron's convoy left for the Presidential Palace. A second blast was reported just a few metres away, near an ambulance where several people had gathered.

Earlier Blast in Damascus Killed Nine People

This incident comes after another attack on Damascus that occurred a few days ago. A bomb blast on July 2 in a cafe in Damascus caused the death of nine people and injured almost 20 others. Since coming to power after Assad, President Ahmed al-Shara has been trying to stabilize the country but recent blasts are a reminder of the continuing security threats in Syria.