Two killed, one wounded in Syria explosion, as Damascus continues international diplomatic efforts

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.

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.

These developments illustrate the contrasting challenges facing Syria. While the government is working to rebuild diplomatic ties and attract investment, security incidents such as the Damascus countryside explosion remain a reminder of the instability that continues to affect parts of the country.

Jaramana has previously been the scene of serious security incidents and sectarian tensions. The Damascus suburb, home to members of the minority Druze community as well as Christians and Muslims, witnessed in March 2025. More serious violence erupted in April 2025.

Jaramana sees two deadly bombings in three months

The November 14 explosion was the second deadly bombing in Jaramana in just over three months. On August 6, an explosive device planted inside a passenger minibus detonated in the city, killing two people and wounding 13 others, according to Syrian authorities. No group immediately claimed responsibility for that attack. This leads to questions about who is behind the bombings and whether Syria can prevent future attacks.

Meanwhile, Syria has used the Sir Bani Yas Forum in Abu Dhabi to advance its interests in better ties with the UAE, Egypt and other countries. As note above, al-Shaibani met Friday with UAE Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan on the sidelines of the Sir Bani Yas Forum in Abu Dhabi. SANA added that “the meeting addressed avenues for bilateral cooperation and ways to expand it across various fields, as well as opportunities to strengthen the economic and development partnership between the two countries.”

Organized in Abu Dhabi by the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs in cooperation with the Royal Institute of International Affairs (Chatham House), the Sir Bani Yas Forum is an annual gathering hosted by Al Nahyan. The forum brings together around 100 foreign ministers and prominent thought leaders from around the world to discuss key regional issues and shared challenges facing the Middle East, SANA noted.