Macron's visit to Syria overshadowed by criticism of school…

Macron's visit to Syria overshadowed by criticism of school plan

12.07.2026 15:01 HotInfo

Syrian authorities announced the detention of a group believed to be behind Tuesday's explosions in Damascus near the Four Seasons hotel, where French President Emmanuel Macron was staying during his visit. Syrian Interior Minister Anas Khattab stated that the attack was linked to the Islamic State. One person died and 36 people were injured in the explosions. hnonline.sk ↗

Macron arrived in Damascus as the first major Western leader and the first head of state from an EU country since the fall of Bashar al-Assad's regime in December 2024. The explosions occurred during his program in the Syrian capital, but the Élysée Palace reported that the president was safe and the visit continued. The French president met with Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa, and Paris presented the trip as support for the country's stabilization, political transformation, and reconstruction. idnes.cz ↗

New information also added to the controversy surrounding Macron's announcement that France would like to reopen a French Christian school in Syria. This intention sparked criticism on social media, where some users accused him of alleged religious double standards and a colonial approach. aktuality.sk ↗

According to available information, the Syrian leadership has not disclosed the identity of those detained or details of their affiliations. The incident disrupted the new leadership in Damascus's effort to present the country as more stable after years of war. The visit also brought diplomatic steps between France and Syria, including the restoration of ambassadors after more than a decade. Further developments will depend on the investigation into the attack and on whether the new Syrian authorities can convince foreign partners of the country's security control. teraz.sk ↗