At least nine people were killed and around 20 others injured after a powerful explosion tore through a crowded café in Syria’s capital, Damascus, on Wednesday evening, leaving behind widespread destruction and panic.
The blast struck a popular café in the city’s Bab Touma neighbourhood, an area known for its restaurants and cafés. The explosion occurred while the venue was busy with customers, sending debris flying and damaging nearby buildings and vehicles.
Witnesses described hearing a loud blast before people rushed out of the café and surrounding shops in fear. Rescue workers and emergency personnel quickly reached the scene, pulling victims from the rubble and shifting the injured to nearby hospitals for treatment.
Authorities have launched an investigation into the incident to determine the exact cause of the explosion. While initial reports suggested an explosion inside the café, officials have not yet released a final conclusion. Security agencies have cordoned off the area as forensic teams examine the site.
The blast comes at a time when Syria continues to face security challenges despite a significant reduction in large-scale fighting in recent years. Although life has gradually returned to many parts of Damascus, isolated violent incidents continue to raise concerns among residents.
The Syrian government expressed condolences to the families of those who lost their loved ones and assured that a thorough investigation would be conducted. Medical teams remained on alert as hospitals treated those injured, some of whom were reported to be in serious condition.
Images from the scene showed shattered windows, damaged furniture and rescue workers clearing debris from the café. Residents gathered nearby as emergency services worked through the night, while many searched for information about family members and friends.
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