A blast from an explosive device inside a café near the Justice Palace in central Damascus killed five people and injured 16 others on July 2, 2026, according to the Syrian Ministry of Interior and state media. Security forces have cordoned off the site, and investigations into the incident are currently underway.
What is the current status of the investigation?
Syrian authorities have not identified the cause of the explosion or announced a perpetrator as of July 2, 2026. According to the Syrian Ministry of Health, the death toll remains preliminary as rescue teams and civil defense units work to clear rubble from the site. Security forces have established a secure perimeter around the area, which sits near the historic Al-Hamidiyah market. The blast occurred during peak hours, complicating emergency response efforts as ambulances navigated through heavy traffic to reach the wounded.
The location of the explosion, the Al-Hijaz area, is near the Justice Palace.
How does this incident compare to recent security trends in Damascus?
This attack represents the most deadly security incident in the capital since June 2025, when a suicide bombing at a church in the Douil’a district resulted in 25 deaths. While authorities attributed the 2025 attack to the Islamic State, no group has claimed responsibility for the July 2026 bombing. The intensity of the blast was noted by local business owners. Nawar Khayyat, who owns a solar energy shop across from the Justice Palace, reported that the shockwave was strong enough to shake his storefront. Mohammad Al-Dhahabi, a shopkeeper, described seeing victims on the ground, noting that the scene revived memories of the explosions witnessed in Damascus during years of conflict.
What are the primary safety concerns for the area?
The central location of the explosion has raised concerns. As cleanup efforts continue, the primary concern for officials is the potential for further casualties during the debris removal process.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How many casualties were reported?
According to the Syrian Ministry of Health, five people were killed and 16 were injured in a preliminary count. - Has any group claimed responsibility?
No. As of July 2, 2026, no organization has issued a statement regarding the attack. - Where exactly did the explosion occur?
The device detonated inside a café in the Al-Hijaz area, located near the Justice Palace in central Damascus.
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