A bomb exploded at a café in central Damascus on Thursday, killing at least six people and injuring 16 others, Syrian authorities reported. The blast occurred near the Palace of Justice, a prominent government building in the heart of the city, causing panic in the crowded area.
According to state television, the explosion was caused by an explosive device planted inside the café. Initially, authorities were investigating the exact origin of the blast before confirming the presence of an improvised explosive device.
Eyewitnesses described scenes of chaos following the explosion. Nour Khayyat, who owns a solar panel battery shop near the site, said the blast occurred around 3:00 p.m. local time (12:00 GMT), shaking his storefront and prompting people to rush to the café to assist the victims. Mohammed Al Zahabi, owner of a nearby glasses shop, reported feeling a strong shockwave and pressure as the explosion unfolded. He described seeing numerous injured people lying on the ground amid pools of blood.
Emergency responders quickly arrived at the scene, with ambulances navigating congested streets to reach the injured. Security forces cordoned off the affected area as investigations were underway.
No group immediately claimed responsibility for the attack, and Syrian officials have not announced any suspects. The incident adds to the region’s ongoing security concerns amid continuing instability in Syria.