Explosion near Damascus courthouse leaves dead and wounded

DAMASCUS, Syria — An explosion occurred near the Palace of Justice in central Damascus, the Syrian capital, on Thursday, killing and wounding several people, according to local reports. The cause of the blast and the type of explosive used have not yet been disclosed. Security forces were deployed to the area and tightened security measures in the surrounding neighborhoods, while the wounded were transported to nearby hospitals. Syrian authorities have opened an investigation into the incident, officials said, without providing further details on casualties or possible motives. No group has claimed responsibility. The Palace of Justice is one of the main judicial complexes in central Damascus, and the area around it includes government buildings and busy commercial streets. Further information is expected to be released as the investigation progresses.