French President Emmanuel Macron’s landmark visit to Syria was overshadowed on Tuesday after a series of bomb explosions occurred near the hotel where he was staying, underscoring the country’s persistent security challenges.

According to Reuters, the blasts took place close to Macron’s accommodation in the Syrian capital, Damascus, prompting security agencies to shut down nearby roads and reinforce security in the area.

Despite the incident, the French Presidency stated that Macron was not aware of the explosions, explaining that the blasts were not heard by the presidential convoy.

The Élysée Palace said the French leader proceeded with his official engagements as planned, without any disruption to his schedule.

A Reuters journalist travelling with Macron’s delegation also reported that neither the delegation nor the president heard the explosions or witnessed any signs of panic during the morning’s activities.

Following the incident, Macron held talks with Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa at the Presidential Palace, according to Syrian state television.

The visit is significant as it marks the first official trip to Syria by a serving European Union head of state since the 2024 ousting of former President Bashar al-Assad by rebel forces led by al-Sharaa.

Reuters correspondents at the scene reported hearing powerful explosions and seeing plumes of smoke rising into the sky while security personnel quickly sealed off the affected locations.

Macron’s visit comes as Syria seeks to rebuild diplomatic relations with the international community under President al-Sharaa, a former al-Qaeda commander who has since strengthened ties with several Western and Middle Eastern countries that had previously distanced themselves from the Assad government.

The incident also highlights Syria’s fragile security environment despite political changes in the country. After more than a decade of civil war, the country continues to face threats from extremist groups, including the Islamic State, which previously established strongholds in several regions.

Although President al-Sharaa has pledged to establish an inclusive government following the end of the Assad family’s more than 50-year rule, his administration has continued to contend with outbreaks of sectarian and ethnic violence.

Over the past year, clashes involving pro-government forces and minority communities have resulted in the deaths of hundreds of people, underscoring the ongoing security and political challenges confronting the country.