At least six people were killed and 22 others injured after an explosive device detonated at a cafe in the Syrian capital on Thursday, according to the country's Health Ministry.

The blast occurred near Damascus' main courthouse complex, the ministry said, according to the state-run Al-Ikhbariya television network.

No group immediately claimed responsibility for the attack.

Security forces sealed off the area shortly after the explosion and launched an investigation. Damascus Governor Maher Idlibi said preliminary indications suggested the device was a "primitive" explosive and pledged that those responsible would be brought to justice. He added that the Interior Ministry would soon release its initial findings.

Videos circulating on social media showed several injured people lying outside the cafe as police and emergency responders arrived at the scene. Ambulances treated victims on site before transporting those with serious injuries to nearby hospitals.

Jalal Aljanani, who owns a restaurant next to the cafe, said he rushed to help after hearing the explosion.

He said local residents carried victims to vehicles before emergency services arrived, adding that many had suffered severe blast injuries and were bleeding heavily.

The attack comes as Syria's authorities continue efforts to improve security following the overthrow of the Assad government in December 2024.

Since taking power, President Ahmad al-Sharaa's administration has intensified operations against militants linked to the extremist Islamic State group, saying it aims to prevent attacks in Damascus and other parts of the country.

Although government forces have regained control over much of Syria and security agencies regularly announce raids on suspected militant cells, sporadic attacks continue. Incidents, including a suicide bombing at a church in July 2025, have heightened security concerns among residents in the capital and elsewhere.