Key facts
- A bomb blast at a cafe in Damascus killed at least nine people and injured 20 others.
- The explosion occurred near the Palace of Justice, a key government building.
- The interior ministry described the device as an improvised explosive containing metal fragments.
- Damascus Governor Maher Eldibi stated an investigation is underway and those responsible will be punished.
- No group has immediately claimed responsibility for the attack.
A bomb blast at a crowded cafe in Damascus on Thursday killed at least nine people and injured 20 others. The explosion, which occurred near the capital's Palace of Justice, has sparked scenes of panic in the busy area.
Syrian state television reported that the blast resulted from an explosive device planted in the location. The interior ministry stated the "improvised explosive device" contained metal fragments, causing severe injuries and significant damage. Damascus Governor Maher Eldibi confirmed that authorities have launched an investigation and vowed that those responsible for the bloodshed would be punished, adding that "malicious parties" attempt to destabilize the country during periods of stability.
No group has immediately claimed responsibility for the attack. The UN's deputy special envoy for Syria, Claudio Cordone, stated on X that the perpetrators should be brought to justice. The incident marks the deadliest attack in Damascus since a suicide bombing on a church last year. Previous attacks in the capital include a car bomb outside a Defense Ministry building in May that killed one soldier and wounded at least 18 others.