Iranian flights to Syria are suspended until January 22, 2025, after the fall of President Bashar al-Assad. The Civil Aviation Organisation stated that flights will resume only when entry permits are granted. Political turmoil and rebel advancements have compelled many Iranians to flee Syria, emphasizing the shifting power dynamics in the region.
Iranian flights to Syria will remain suspended until late January, according to reports from local media. This decision follows the recent fall of President Bashar al-Assad, a long-time ally of Tehran. Hossein Pourfarzaneh, head of Iran’s Civil Aviation Organisation, stated that flights will not be permitted until January 22, 2025, as the destination country is responsible for granting entry and admission permits. It is unclear when the suspension of flights to Syria commenced.
Assad’s departure came after a swift offensive by rebel forces, particularly the Sunni Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, which captured the capital city, Damascus. The seizure of power has prompted thousands of Iranians to exit Syria, particularly following incidents where Tehran’s embassy in Damascus was vandalized. Furthermore, the newly established ruler of Syria, Ahmed al-Sharaa, has been critical of Iran’s previous involvement in Syrian affairs, notably its military support to Assad throughout the prolonged civil war. In light of these developments, Iran’s foreign ministry has indicated that there is “no direct contact” with the new Syrian authority and has advised against Iranian travel to Syria following the recent upheaval.
The relationship between Iran and Syria has historically been pivotal, particularly during the Syrian civil war where Iran provided substantial military and logistical support to President Bashar al-Assad. The recent change in Syria’s leadership, following the rebel takeover, marks a significant shift in regional dynamics. The suspension of flights has implications for Iranian nationals, foreign relations, and the overall stability in the region, as Tehran assesses its strategy in response to the evolving political landscape in Syria.
In summary, Iranian flights to Syria will remain suspended until late January 2025 following the political upheaval in Syria resulting from the ousting of President Bashar al-Assad. The ongoing instability and hostility toward Iranian influence by the new regime raise concerns about the safety of Iranian nationals and the future of bilateral relations between Iran and Syria.
Original Source: jordantimes.com
