Watch: Explosions near Macron's Damascus hotel as French leader meets Syria's president

Explosions struck central Damascus on Tuesday near the hotel where French President Emmanuel Macron was staying during his landmark visit to Syria, highlighting the country's fragile security situation even as Western leaders seek to rebuild ties with its new leadership.According to Reuters, bombs exploded near Macron's hotel, though the French president did not hear the blasts and proceeded with his scheduled meeting with Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa.The Elysee Palace later confirmed Macron was safe and that his visit would continue.Macron had entered the presidential palace for talks with al-Sharaa when the explosions occurred near the Four Seasons Hotel, where Syrian media said the French leader was staying.Blasts near Four Seasons HotelA Reuters witness heard explosions in the area and saw smoke rising, while roads around the site were sealed off and security measures tightened.According to news agency AP, citing an unnamed Syrian security official, two explosive devices caused the blasts in the heart of the capital.Video circulating on social media showed a vehicle engulfed in flames and blood stains on the street. Authorities did not immediately announce casualty figures, and no group claimed responsibility.Despite the explosions, Syrian state television later showed Macron and al-Sharaa meeting at the presidential palace.The incident comes just days after an explosive device detonated at a café near Damascus' Justice Palace, killing at least 10 people and injuring 20.First EU leader to visit post-Assad SyriaMacron is the first European Union head of state to visit Damascus since rebels led by Ahmed al-Sharaa overthrew Bashar al-Assad in 2024.The visit reflects Syria's geopolitical shift under al-Sharaa, a former al Qaeda commander who has since forged closer ties with Western and Middle Eastern governments after years of diplomatic isolation.Upon arriving in Damascus on Monday, Macron said on X, "I am here to affirm France's commitment to the Syrian people. For a sovereign Syria, united in its diversity and at peace with its neighbours. Together, let's open a new page of stability and peace."Reconstruction and security on agendaMacron's visit is focused on Syria's reconstruction, restoring diplomatic engagement and encouraging an inclusive political transition.He is accompanied by senior French business leaders, including executives from TotalEnergies and CMA CGM, reflecting France's interest in supporting the country's economic recovery.The French president is also expected to press al-Sharaa on protecting Syria's religious and ethnic communities after episodes of sectarian violence that have tested the new government's pledge to build an inclusive state.Talks are also expected to cover counterterrorism cooperation and regional security, including Lebanon, after France reportedly warned Damascus against any military involvement across the border.Catch the latest world news and top headlines. Download the TOI App.