Explosions erupted near the hotel where French President Emmanuel Macron was staying in Syria on Tuesday, according to a security source. However, the Elysee Palace confirmed that Macron did not hear the blasts and proceeded to meet Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa shortly afterward.
Security Challenges Highlighted
The incident underscores the major security hurdles in Syria, where Macron is the first head of state from a European Union country to visit since rebels led by al-Sharaa toppled Bashar al-Assad in 2024. A Reuters witness reported hearing explosions in the vicinity and seeing smoke rising. Roads were sealed off and security measures were implemented, the security source added.
No Disruption to Macron's Schedule
The Elysee stated that the explosions were not audible from the presidential motorcade. A Reuters journalist traveling with the press group accompanying Macron also did not hear the blast or observe any commotion during the French president's morning events. State television later reported that Macron and al-Sharaa met at the Syrian Presidential Palace.
Geopolitical Transformation
Macron's visit highlights Syria's geopolitical transformation under al-Sharaa, a former al Qaeda commander who has established close ties with Western and Middle Eastern powers that previously shunned Assad. Al-Sharaa aims to rebuild a country devastated by 13 years of war. During the conflict, various militant groups, including Islamic State, gained a foothold in Syria.
Inclusive New Order Pledged
Al-Sharaa, a member of Syria's Sunni Muslim majority, has pledged to build an inclusive new order after ending over five decades of iron-fisted rule by the Assad family. However, this promise has been tested by bouts of violence between pro-government forces and members of religious and ethnic minority groups, with many hundreds killed last year.
