It was the second blast to rock the capital in a few days, and a setback for the country’s new president as he welcomed his first visit from a western leader since ousting longtime dictator Bashar Assad. Emmanuel Macron was inside the presidential palace when the explosions happened. An official from the Elysee Palace said he was safe and that the meeting with Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa continued. 

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Explosions rock Syria's capital as French President Macron visits

Explosions rock Syria's capital as French President Macron visits

Explosions have rocked Syria's capital as France's president is visiting, and the Interior Ministry says at least 18 people were wounded. This marks the second attack in Damascus in a week, challenging new President Ahmad al-Sharaa. French President Emmanuel Macron was in the presidential palace during the blasts but was unharmed. No group has claimed responsibility. Macron, who played a major role in getting sanctions on Syria lifted, later said he and al-Sharaa have agreed to reappoint ambassadors after over a decade. The explosions highlight the challenges as Syria's new rulers work to assert control and rebuild.

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