Explosions are reported in central Damascus on Tuesday during French President Emmanuel Macron’s visit to meet Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa. Multiple outlets, citing witnesses and security sources, say the blasts are heard near a high-end hotel where Macron is believed to be staying, with some reports identifying the Four Seasons Hotel. One source says the explosions occur close to the hotel area, while another reports that a vehicle-borne explosive device may be involved. Accounts from AFP journalists indicate at least one blast is heard, with smoke rising and ambulances rushing to the scene. Reports also describe Macron’s movements: he enters the presidential palace to hold talks with al-Sharaa, and some accounts state he has left the area moments before the explosions. Several outlets mention that multiple people are hurt, but the reports provided do not consistently specify numbers or conditions. The visit is described as notable because Macron is the first Western European leader to visit Syria since the fall of former ruler Bashar al-Assad in 2024.