Improvised Explosive Device Kills 9 in Syrian Capital

A deadly improvised explosive device (IED) detonated inside a café in central Damascus on July 3, killing nine civilians and wounding twenty others. The device, estimated to weigh about one kilogram and packed with metal fragments, exploded at approximately 3:00 p.m. local time.

The location, situated on Al-Nasr Street in the Hijaz area and close to the Justice Palace, was quickly cordoned off by security forces. Emergency medical teams were dispatched, providing urgent care before transporting victims to hospitals.

Syrian authorities have opened an investigative probe to uncover the origin of the IED and to hold those responsible accountable. Although no organization has announced responsibility, officials warned that the Islamic State could be exploiting the country’s weakened security framework as the interim government works to re‑establish authority.

The incident adds to a recent string of attacks targeting military personnel and civilians across Syria.