Huge Explosion Rocks Syrian Capital

As nation plans talks with opposition groups

Damascus residents and state-run TV say a huge explosion has shaken the city.

The blast followed by heavy gunfire caused panic in the capital, where a massive car bombing on Thursday near the ruling Baath party headquarters killed at least 53 people.

It was not immediately clear what the target of Monday's explosion was and whether there were casualties.

State-run TV reported a "terrorist" explosion at the entrance to the northeastern neighborhood of Qaboun.