The blast occurred in the Bab Sharqi district of the Syrian capital while army personnel were dismantling another explosive device discovered near the same location, the ministry said in a statement.

According to the ministry, “a car bomb exploded in the same area, resulting in the martyrdom of one soldier and injuries to others.”

A source from Syria’s civil defense services said at least one person had been killed in the explosion, though casualty figures had not been independently confirmed.

An AFP correspondent at the scene reported hearing a powerful explosion before witnessing a vehicle engulfed in flames near the defense-related building. Security forces quickly sealed off the surrounding area and deployed heavily across the neighborhood.

Authorities have not publicly identified those responsible for the attack, and no group immediately claimed responsibility.

The incident underscores ongoing security challenges in Syria despite a relative reduction in large-scale fighting following years of civil war and political instability.

Damascus has periodically experienced bombings, targeted attacks and security operations involving militant cells, particularly around government and military facilities.

Police confirmed that several hostage-takers and hostages were inside the bank, according to a statement issued during the ongoing operation.

Authorities said the driver of a cash transport vehicle was among those being held.Large numbers of police officers were deployed around the area, which was cordoned off as security forces responded to the incident.

German police did not disclose the number of hostages involved, identify the suspects or provide details about possible demands.

The incident remained ongoing as authorities worked to secure the release of those inside the bank.Hostage situations are relatively rare in Germany, where heavily armed police tactical units are routinely deployed in major security incidents involving banks or public institutions.

No injuries had been reported at the time of the police statement.