ISTANBUL 

A fire broke out near the presidential in Damascus on Friday, with efforts currently underway to extinguish it, state news agency SANA reported.

The fire erupted in an area between Mashrou Dummar neighborhood and the People’s Palace, according to Syrian civil defense.

Firefighting teams were actively working to control the flames and prevent them from spreading.

Footage shared by SANA showed thick plumes of smoke rising near the presidential compound.

The palace hosted the launch of the Syrian state’s new national emblem on Thursday evening, attended by President Ahmed al-Sharaa and other officials.