Two people were killed and another wounded in an explosion in the Damascus countryside on November 14, according to Syrian state media. The incident comes as Syria continues efforts to expand diplomatic relations and attract international investment.
The Syrian Arab News Agency (SANA) reported that a man and a young girl were killed when an explosive device planted inside a vehicle detonated in a city in the Damascus countryside. Another person was wounded.
The report did not immediately identify those responsible for the attack or provide details about a possible motive. “In a statement posted on Telegram Saturday, the Internal Security Forces said their units cordoned off the site of the explosion and immediately launched an investigation to establish the circumstances of the incident,” SANA said.
The explosion highlights the continuing security challenges facing Syria as the government seeks to stabilize the country following years of civil war and the fall of the Assad regime in December 2024.
Meanwhile, Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad Hassan al-Shaibani has been conducting a series of diplomatic meetings aimed at strengthening Syria’s international relationships.
Syrian Foreign Minister expands diplomatic relations with Middle East, Europe
On November 14, SANA reported that al-Shaibani received the credentials of new diplomatic representatives from Spain, Oman, Belgium, and Belarus. The meetings are part of Damascus’s efforts to expand its diplomatic engagement with European and Middle Eastern countries.
Al-Shaibani also held discussions with regional counterparts on the sidelines of the Sir Bani Yas Forum in the United Arab Emirates. According to SANA, he met officials from the UAE, Egypt, Iraq, and Bahrain to discuss bilateral relations and cooperation. His meetings included talks with Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty and his Iraqi counterpart, as well as discussions with the Emirati foreign minister in Abu Dhabi.
The diplomatic activity comes as Syria seeks international assistance for reconstruction and economic recovery. SANA reported that the Syrian Investment Authority held discussions with the Islamic Development Bank regarding potential projects in Syria. Damascus is also preparing to host a Partnership Coordination Forum on November 17, an initiative aimed at improving coordination with international partners.