At least two explosions were reported in the Syrian capital of Damascus on Tuesday, with Syrian state media indicating that 18 people were injured, including four security personnel. The blasts occurred near the Ministry of Tourism building.

The incidents took place as French President Emmanuel Macron was visiting the city for a meeting with Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa. Macron's visit marks the first time a major Western leader has visited Syria since the fall of former President Bashar al-Assad in December 2024, following a rebel offensive led by Sharaa's Hayat Tahrir al-Sham.

Syrian state media, the Syrian Arab News Agency, reported the explosions. The cause of the blasts was not immediately clear, and Syrian authorities had not issued an immediate comment on the situation. The explosions sent smoke and fire rising near a hotel where President Macron was reportedly scheduled to stay.

Writing on the social platform X, President Macron commented on the situation in Syria without explicitly mentioning the explosions. He stated, "Nothing can smother the aspiration of Syrian women and men to live in a fully sovereign, safe, pluralistic and united Syria." He added that he had met "Syria in all its diversity" and observed "dignity, courage and determination," indicating his visit would continue.

President Macron arrived in Damascus on Monday, expressing France's commitment to the Syrian people. He posted on X, "I have come to express France's commitment to the Syrian people. For a sovereign Syria, united in its diversity and at peace with its neighbors. Together, let us open a new chapter of stability and peace."

This is not the first violent incident in Damascus recently. Last week, an explosion occurred in a cafe near the Justice Palace, resulting in at least 10 deaths and 20 injuries. The Syrian government has not yet provided details on the perpetrators or motives behind either the recent cafe incident or the Tuesday explosions.

President Macron's visit is seen as a significant diplomatic engagement in a region still recovering from years of conflict. The meeting with President al-Sharaa is expected to address issues of stability, reconstruction, and the future political landscape of Syria. The timing of the explosions, however, raises questions about the security situation and the challenges facing any diplomatic efforts in the country.

Further details regarding the explosions, including their origin and any potential impact on President Macron's itinerary or diplomatic discussions, are expected to emerge as the situation develops. This is a developing story.