Syria’s Interior Ministry on Tuesday confirmed that 18 people have been wounded in an explosion in Damascus, amid the French president’s landmark visit.
The ministry said this was the second attack to hit Damascus in a week and a setback for new President Ahmad al-Sharaa, as he welcomed the first visit from a major Western leader.
Syria’s new rulers have wrestled with outbreaks of violence as they assert control, but the capital has been largely peaceful.
French President Emmanuel Macron was in the presidential palace when the explosions happened.
An official from the Elysee Palace speaking on condition of anonymity said that Macron was safe and the meeting with al-Sharaa continued,
No group has claimed responsibility.
Meanwhile on his X hours later ”nothing can smother the aspiration of Syrian women and men to live in a fully sovereign, safe, pluralistic, and united Syria.
”This morning I met Syria in all its diversity. I saw dignity, courage and determination.’’
