Syrian authorities say they arrested an ISIS-linked cell responsible for two bombings in central Damascus during French President Emmanuel Macron’s visit.
The explosions killed one person and wounded 18 near the hotel where Macron was staying, shortly before he met Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa. ISIS has not claimed responsibility.
Officials said surveillance identified the suspects before simultaneous raids across four Damascus-area neighborhoods.
The attack renewed concerns that ISIS is exploiting Syria’s post-Assad transition. The group has shifted toward decentralized cells and has reportedly targeted al-Sharaa and senior officials in several foiled assassination plots.
