Syrian Authorities Arrest Suspects Behind Damascus Bombings

Syrian authorities have announced the arrest of a group of suspects believed to be responsible for the twin bombings that shook the capital, Damascus, earlier this week.

Interior Minister Anas Khattab confirmed that the suspected cell was captured during coordinated security raids across four neighborhoods in Damascus and nearby areas. He said the identities of those arrested, their specific roles, and any connections to other groups would be made public once investigations are completed.

The explosions occurred on Tuesday near the Four Seasons Hotel, where French President Emmanuel Macron was staying during his official visit to Syria. According to the Interior Ministry, one explosive device had been hidden inside a parked vehicle while another was concealed in a rubbish bin. Both devices detonated as bomb disposal experts attempted to defuse them.

Speaking after the attack alongside Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa, President Macron expressed support for those injured and stressed the importance of maintaining strong security measures while refusing to let acts of violence undermine stability.

The attacks left 36 people injured and overshadowed Macron's historic visit, which marked the first trip to Syria by a serving European Union head of state since the removal of former President Bashar al-Assad in December 2024.

The latest bombings come just days after another deadly explosion at a crowded café in central Damascus killed nine people. Although no group has claimed responsibility for either attack, Damascus Governor Maher Marwan said those behind the violence were attempting to destabilize the country as it continues to navigate a fragile political transition.