DAMASCUS, July 2 (Xinhua) -- An explosion rocked near the Justice Palace in the heart of the capital Damascus on Thursday afternoon, leaving an unknown number of casualties, local media and witnesses said.

Solar panels are seen on rooftops in Damascus, Syria, Oct. 25, 2023. (Photo by Ammar Safarjalani/Xinhua)

State news agency SANA reported that the explosion occurred inside a coffee shop in the Hejaz area, causing injuries.

While investigations are ongoing, some witnesses said the explosion may have been caused by an overheating battery in the coffee shop.

Police have cordoned off the area, and ambulance sirens have been heard across the surrounding areas.