July 7, 2026
The visit marks the first by a European Union head of state since the 2024 overthrow of former President Bashar al-Assad by rebel forces led by al-Sharaa.
French President, Emmanuel Macron's historic visit to Syria was overshadowed on Tuesday after multiple bomb explosions struck near the hotel where he was staying, highlighting the fragile security situation in the war-torn country.
Reuters reports that the blasts occurred close to Macron's hotel in the Syrian capital, prompting authorities to immediately seal off surrounding roads and tighten security.
Despite the explosions, the French presidency said Macron was unaware of the incident.
