Emmanuel Macron’s historic Syria trip takes dramatic turn after explosions near hotel

New Delhi: French President Emmanuel Macron’s official visit to Syria was briefly overshadowed by a security scare after two explosions were reported near the hotel where he was staying in Damascus on Tuesday. Despite the incident, Macron’s schedule continued as planned, with the French leader later holding talks with Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa.

The visit is considered historically significant, marking the first trip to Syria by a Western European head of state since the fall of former President Bashar Assad in 2024.

Blasts Trigger Security Response

According to security sources, the explosions occurred close to the hotel accommodating Macron in the Syrian capital. Witnesses reported hearing loud blasts and seeing smoke rising near the area shortly afterward.

Emergency response teams were quickly deployed, while authorities temporarily closed nearby roads and tightened security around the location as a precaution. Officials also began assessing the circumstances surrounding the explosions.

French Presidency Says Macron Was Unaffected

The Elysee Palace said Macron did not hear the explosions because they were not audible from the presidential motorcade. Reports indicated that one explosive device had been placed inside a dumpster, while another was located in a parked vehicle near the Four Seasons Hotel.

Despite the security incident, Macron proceeded with his planned meeting with President Ahmed al-Sharaa at the Presidential Palace in Damascus.

Visit Highlights Changing Regional Dynamics

Macron’s visit comes at a time of significant political changes in the region following the fall of Bashar Assad and the evolving leadership under Ahmed al-Sharaa. The trip also follows recent geopolitical tensions involving the United States, Israel and Iran.

Shortly after arriving in Syria, Macron shared a message expressing France’s support for the Syrian people and its hope for a peaceful and stable future.

He wrote that France remains committed to a sovereign Syria that is united, embraces its diversity and lives peacefully with its neighbours, adding that the visit represents an opportunity to open a new chapter focused on stability and peace.

Next Stop: NATO Summit

Following his engagements in Damascus, Macron is scheduled to travel to Ankara, Turkey, where he will participate in the upcoming NATO summit alongside leaders from allied nations. The Syria visit is expected to play an important role in France’s broader diplomatic engagement with the region.