Damascus explosion caused by bomb, state TV says, as death toll climbs to six

Damage in Damascus: Bomb Attack Claims Six Lives, State TV Confirms

Damascus explosion caused by bomb state - A bomb attack in Damascus has left at least six people dead and 22 injured, according to Syrian state officials. The incident occurred at a café in central Damascus, near the Palace of Justice, a key government building, causing significant disruption in the area. State television confirmed the explosion was caused by an explosive device, though earlier reports had indicated authorities were still determining the exact cause of the attack.

Witness Accounts and Immediate Reactions

Nour Khayyat, a solar panel battery shop owner adjacent to the blast site, described the explosion to AFP as a "powerful blast" that shook the storefront around 3:00 pm. "People rushed to the café and called ambulances," he recounted, highlighting the abrupt nature of the event. Mohammed al-Zahabi, a glasses shop owner nearby, added that the entire area trembled, and he saw individuals on the ground with blood pooling around them. "It felt like the bombings from the 14-year civil war," he said, underscoring the familiar chaos.

"At about 3:00 pm I heard a powerful blast and the storefront shook." — Nour Khayyat, shop owner

"I ran to the place and saw people lying on the floor with blood pooled around them everywhere." — Mohammed al-Zahabi, glasses shop owner

Escalating Security Concerns in Damascus

The attack has intensified security fears in Damascus, a city still grappling with the aftermath of its prolonged civil war. The Palace of Justice, a symbol of the new government’s authority, remains a critical target, with its proximity to the café amplifying the incident’s impact. State media emphasized the use of an explosive device, but the timing of the attack has raised questions about the city’s readiness to handle such threats in its post-Assad transition.

Analysts suggest that the incident may reflect ongoing tensions between factions seeking to influence the city’s political landscape. While the government is working to stabilize the region, the explosion serves as a stark reminder of the persistent risks. The death toll, now at six, underscores the gravity of the situation as Damascus continues to navigate its path toward recovery.

Context of Recent Violence

Since the ousting of Bashar al-Assad in December 2024, Damascus has experienced a series of attacks, with the most severe occurring in June 2025 at a church that killed 25 people. That bombing was initially linked to a Sunni Islamist group, though the government later blamed Islamic State operatives. This latest explosion adds to the pattern of violence, highlighting the challenges of maintaining security in a city that has become a focal point for political power.

The bombing in Damascus aligns with broader security concerns as the interim administration works to consolidate control. With the first parliamentary body set to convene, the attack has sparked debate over the effectiveness of current measures to protect the city’s infrastructure and public spaces from sabotage. The government’s swift response, including confirming the cause of the explosion, aims to reassure citizens of its commitment to stability.

Political Shifts and Security Challenges

The formation of the new parliamentary body marks a significant step in Syria’s post-war governance. Interim President Ahmad al-Sharaa announced 70 legislators, bringing the total to 210, as the country seeks to rebuild its institutions. However, the recent attack has cast a shadow over these political developments, with analysts noting the vulnerability of Damascus as a target for groups opposing the transition.

Despite the progress in political reforms, the bomb attack in Damascus raises doubts about the city’s safety. The inclusion of 15 women in the new legislative body signals efforts to increase gender representation, but the violence has highlighted the fragility of these changes. The government continues to face pressure to ensure security in areas critical to its operations, even as it moves forward with democratic reforms.

Legacy of the Civil War

The explosion in Damascus also serves as a reminder of the conflict’s enduring effects. While the war officially ended in 2024, its psychological and physical scars remain visible. The café, a hub for everyday life, became a scene of panic, illustrating how violence can disrupt even routine settings. The attack has reignited discussions about the long-term challenges of rebuilding trust and safety in the capital.