The Deputy Tourism minister is among the 18 wounded in today's terror attack in #Damascus.
The twin explosions occurred outside the security perimeter established for Macron's visit and in the vicinity of the Ministry of Tourism, close to the 4 Seasons Hotel.
Today, Macron announced that over €50 million stolen by Assad's uncle, Rifaat, will be returned by France to #Syria.
They will be used to finance the reconstruction.
France is the first country to take such step.
The terror attack in #Damascus involved a double bombing, with a 2nd IED detonated to target first rescuers and people who rushed to the scene after the initial explosion.
This modus operandi was already used in the attack against a military building 2 months ago:
https://t.co/o5auHO4QaE
The Government is facing a highly determined and capable terrorist cell.
Many accounts are sharing AI-reconstructed photos of the alleged terrorist before carrying the first IED attack in #Damascus.
However, the vehicle is not the correct one and every AI tool generates a different reconstruction due to the poor quality of the original footage.
#Syria: Macron's official visit continues this morning as planned, with a reception at the Presidential Palace, despite the terror attack.
The IEDs were concealed in a trash bin and a vehicle.
The explosions occurred near the Ministry of Tourism, an area also close to the Four Seasons Hotel Damascus, where Macron was last night.
Striking the Capital while the first Western Head of State visits the country is a clear show of force demonstrating that the perpetrators can strike at will.
This was the 9th IED attack in Damascus since early May.
The sheer evil of planting explosives to target civilians and first responders after an initial attack, characteristic of a terror attack.
From today's twin attacks in #Damascus.
🇸🇾 Online reports claim explosions occurred near a hotel in Damascus, Syria, where French President Macron was supposedly staying.
The Elysee Palace reports that the French president did not hear any explosions while traveling to meet with the Syrian president.
Explosions rocked Syria ‘s capital on Tuesday as France’s president met with his counterpart in a landmark visit, with at least 18 people wounded, Syria’s Interior Ministry said.
Read more: https://t.co/trLqATySpK
I have congratulated President Trump @POTUS and all Americans on the Independence Day. We’ve had a very good phone call.
We are grateful to the United States for all the assistance we have received – from Javelins and Patriots to political support – and we deeply value that America stands by us in defending our independence. I am grateful to every American heart that cares about the future of Ukraine, Europe, and everyone around the world for whom freedom matters.
Of course, President Trump and I discussed the current situation on the frontline as well as our diplomatic efforts. There is a real prospect to put an end to this war, and America’s resolve is decisive. We have agreed to continue these discussions during the NATO Summit in Ankara.
Thank you, the United States! Thank you, Mr. President! Happy Fourth of July! Wishing Americans continued prosperity and every success.
@Maks_NAFO_FELLA Its a heartfelt and generous gesture. I hope USA can earn Ukraine's respect and trust in the future. Mother Ukraine represents such a different struggle as opposed to the Statue of Liberty. Mother Ukraine represents sacrifice, chosing not to flee but to stay and fight.
The fire is happening at a scrap yard in the 3400 block of Recycle Road, which contains dozens of vehicles, according to a FOX40 crew at the scene.
Read more: https://t.co/riwaDpzsUH