UNIPA News ,10 July(Damascus)-Syrian authorities have announced the arrest of a suspected ISIS-linked cell accused of carrying out two bomb attacks in Damascus during French President Emmanuel Macron’s official visit to Syria earlier this week.

Interior Minister Anas Khattab said late Thursday that the security forces had taken into custody the group allegedly responsible for the attacks. He stated that authorities would disclose the identities of the suspects, their individual roles, and any organizational affiliations after the investigation is completed.

Ahmad Dalati, head of interior security for the Damascus region, said preliminary investigations indicate that the suspects are affiliated with the Islamic State (ISIS). He added that the arrests followed a coordinated series of security raids conducted simultaneously at multiple locations across Damascus and its surrounding areas.

According to the Interior Ministry, the operation targeted suspects in four separate neighborhoods as part of an investigation into the bombings.

The two explosions occurred on Tuesday in central Damascus, killing one person and injuring dozens. Syrian authorities said the explosive devices had been planted near the Four Seasons Hotel, where President Macron was staying during his visit. One device was reportedly concealed in a garbage container, while the second was placed inside a vehicle near the hotel.

The attacks coincided with Macron’s first official visit to Syria. During a joint press conference with Syrian officials, the French president said terrorism should not be allowed to undermine efforts to strengthen bilateral relations. The two countries also announced plans to deepen diplomatic engagement through the appointment of new ambassadors.

Syrian authorities said the investigation remains ongoing as security agencies continue efforts to determine the full scope of the alleged network and any additional connections.