In an extensive security operation, Syrian internal security forces detained dozens in the 'Ash al-Ward' area following bombings in Damascus, coinciding with the visit of French President Emmanuel Macron. Large caches of weapons and ammunition were seized.
The Syrian Interior Minister, Anas Khattab, announced on Thursday the capture of the cell responsible for Tuesday’s double bombings in central Damascus during Macron's visit. He refrained from identifying the cell members, pending further investigation.
Khattab stated via the "X" platform: "The terrorist cell responsible for the recent Damascus bombings is now in our custody."
He added, "Once investigations are completed, we will reveal to the public the identities, roles, and full affiliations of the cell members."
In a statement, the Syrian Interior Ministry confirmed, "We have apprehended the entire terrorist cell responsible for the latest Damascus bombings, following a complex security operation and coordinated raids with the General Intelligence and security forces across Damascus and its suburbs."
The Ministry further detailed that the operation led to the arrest of all members of the terrorist cell, with coordinated raids hitting locations in Qatifah, Sayyida Zainab, Qudsaya Suburb, and 'Ash al-Ward', and investigations continue to uncover the details of their terrorist plan.
Initial reports suggest the cell is linked to ISIS, according to Damascus Rural Police Chief Brigadier General Ahmad Dalati in a televised statement on Syrian state TV.
The simultaneous explosions, one inside a garbage container and the other in a parked car, targeted the vicinity of a luxury hotel where Macron had stayed overnight during his unprecedented visit to Damascus.
The bombings resulted in one fatality and injuries to 36 others, as reported by the Health Ministry.
The incidents occurred shortly after Macron’s convoy left the hotel en route to the presidential palace for extensive talks with Syrian President Ahmad Al-Shara.
Authorities have vowed to hold those responsible accountable, with Al-Shara commending Macron’s "courage" in continuing his visit.
During his visit, Macron reiterated support for the new authorities, asserting that such attacks should not "destabilize" Syria.