A bomb explosion inside a crowded cafe in central Damascus on Thursday killed at least six people and wounded 22 others, Syrian state media reported, marking the latest security challenge as the country navigates a fragile transition following its civil war.
Explosion near Palace of Justice
The blast occurred at a cafe near the Palace of Justice in the heart of the Syrian capital. Syrian state television reported that an explosive device had been planted inside the premises. Damascus Governor Maher Idlibi said the explosion was caused by a crudely made improvised explosive device (IED).
Security challenge for new government
The bombing presents another security challenge for the government of President Ahmed al-Sharaa, who assumed power after the overthrow of former president Bashar al-Assad in late 2024, ending more than 14 years of civil war. Although no group claimed responsibility, security officials have previously warned that the Islamic State group has sought to exploit the security vacuum created by Assad's ouster by reactivating sleeper cells, recruiting fighters, and moving weapons as the new government works to strengthen its authority.
Islamic State threat persists
While Islamic State is significantly weaker than when it controlled vast areas of Syria and Iraq before the collapse of its self-declared caliphate in 2019, the group earlier this year announced a new phase of operations against Sharaa's administration. The new authorities continue to face challenges from other armed groups, including former Assad-era military personnel.
Broader instability
Syria witnessed clashes in 2025 between government forces and insurgents from the Alawite minority, as well as separate fighting involving Druze gunmen. These incidents underscore the volatile security landscape as the government consolidates power.
