Syrian authorities reported that one person was killed and 36 others were wounded following two explosions that rocked the capital city of Damascus on Tuesday. The blasts occurred while French President Emmanuel Macron was in the city for an official visit. Syria's state news agency, citing the Ministry of Health, released the updated casualty figures on Wednesday.

The Ministry of Health stated that 31 of the injured sustained minor wounds, while five others were hospitalized in stable condition. The explosions took place in central Damascus, near the Ministry of Tourism and the Four Seasons Hotel. Al Jazeera’s correspondent in Damascus reported that President Macron had stayed at the hotel the previous night.

According to Syria's Ministry of Interior, one explosive device was found inside a parked car, and a second was discovered in a rubbish container. The ministry indicated that the devices detonated while demolition teams were preparing to disarm them. President Macron, the first European Union head of state to visit Syria since the departure of Bashar al-Assad in 2024, had already departed the hotel for the presidential palace and was not aware of the explosions at the time, his office confirmed.

Despite the attacks, President Macron proceeded with his planned engagements. At a news conference alongside Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa, Macron emphasized the need "not to let ourselves be destabilised" by such incidents. President al-Sharaa commended Macron's "courage" for continuing his visit and stated that the bombings cast a shadow over the significant visit, which aims to aid in the country's post-conflict reconstruction.

This incident follows a separate attack in Damascus just five days prior, which resulted in the deaths of 10 people at a cafe. The recent bombings underscore the ongoing security challenges in the region, even as Syrian leadership seeks to improve the country's international image.

Syria's Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani described Macron's visit as a "pivotal point" in bilateral relations, noting that 15 agreements were signed covering sectors such as civil aviation, health, banking, water infrastructure, and roads. President al-Sharaa expressed his view of France as a "primary partner" for Damascus, suggesting a significant role for Syria in global transit routes, particularly in light of recent disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz.

Both President Macron and President al-Sharaa have since traveled to Ankara, Turkiye, to participate in the annual NATO summit. Their continued presence at the summit together highlights the complex geopolitical landscape and the ongoing efforts to navigate international relations amidst regional instability.

The events raise questions about the security situation in Damascus and the broader implications for Syria's efforts to attract foreign investment and normalize relations with the international community. The blasts, occurring during a high-profile diplomatic visit, cast a stark light on the persistent challenges facing the country.