At Least Six Killed in Central Damascus Cafe Explosion as Syria Launches Investigation

The central Damascus cafe explosion occurred in the busy al-Marjah district near the Palace of Justice, sending emergency crews rushing to the scene as smoke filled the area and nearby streets were cordoned off.

Authorities say the blast was caused by an explosive device placed inside the café. An investigation is now underway to determine who was responsible and how the device was detonated.

Emergency Response After Central Damascus Cafe Explosion

The explosion happened during the afternoon at a café on al-Nasser Street, an area known for its restaurants, businesses, and government offices.

Emergency medical teams and security forces quickly arrived at the scene, transporting the injured to nearby hospitals while firefighters worked to secure the damaged building.

Television footage from the area showed shattered windows, damaged furniture, and rescue workers assisting victims as police established a security perimeter.

The Syrian Health Ministry confirmed that at least six people lost their lives, while 22 others suffered injuries of varying severity.

Officials cautioned that the casualty figures could change as emergency crews continue their assessment.

Investigation Underway Into Damascus Blast

Syrian authorities said preliminary findings indicate that a primitive explosive device detonated inside the café.

Investigators are collecting forensic evidence and reviewing surveillance camera footage from nearby buildings to determine how the device was placed and whether additional suspects may have been involved.

Security personnel also searched the surrounding area as a precaution to ensure no secondary explosive devices remained.

So far, officials have not identified any suspects, and no individual or group has claimed responsibility for the attack.

Witnesses Describe Scenes of Chaos

People who were near the café described moments of panic immediately after the explosion.

Witnesses reported hearing a powerful blast followed by screams as customers and pedestrians rushed to help those trapped inside the damaged building before emergency responders arrived.

Several nearby businesses temporarily closed while security forces secured the area and ambulances continued transporting victims to hospitals.

Security Concerns Continue Across Syria

The explosion highlights ongoing security challenges in Syria despite efforts by the country's authorities to improve stability following years of conflict.

Although the overall level of violence has declined compared with the height of the civil war, isolated attacks continue to raise concerns about public safety in major cities, including Damascus.

Officials have increased security measures in several parts of the capital while the investigation continues.

What Authorities Have Confirmed

As of Thursday evening, Syrian authorities have confirmed:

• At least six people were killed.
• Twenty-two people were injured.
• The blast was caused by an explosive device inside the café.
• The investigation remains active.
• No group has claimed responsibility.

Officials have not yet announced a motive or identified those responsible.

What Remains Unknown

Several important questions remain unanswered, including:

• Who planted the explosive device?
• Was the café specifically targeted?
• What was the motive behind the attack?
• Were the victims selected at random?

Authorities say more information will be released as investigators examine evidence gathered from the scene.

Background

Damascus has experienced occasional security incidents in recent years despite improvements in overall stability. Security agencies continue to monitor potential threats while investigating attacks that target public places.

The latest explosion is likely to renew concerns about security in the Syrian capital and may lead to additional protective measures in crowded public areas.