Iran has suspended flights to Syria until January 22, 2025, following political changes after the fall of President Bashar al-Assad. The head of Iran’s Civil Aviation Organisation highlighted the need for entry permits from Syria’s new leadership. This suspension reflects the uncertainty in Iran-Syria relations amid growing unrest.
Iran has decided to suspend flights to Syria until January 22, 2025, due to recent political unrest following the departure of long-time ally President Bashar al-Assad. According to Hossein Pourfarzaneh, head of Iran’s Civil Aviation Organisation, entry and admission permits from Syria’s new ruling authority are required for flights. The exact timing of the suspension remains uncertain, but the halt follows the entry of the Sunni Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham into Damascus, leading to significant upheaval within the region. Amid the chaos, Tehran’s embassy in Damascus was vandalized, reflecting a stark shift in the dynamics of Iranian influence in Syria. In light of these developments, Iran’s foreign ministry has indicated that there are currently no direct communications with Syria’s new leadership and has advised against travel to Syria for Iranian citizens.
The situation in Syria has evolved rapidly, particularly following the recent shifts in power dynamics with the fall of President Bashar al-Assad’s regime. A significant threat to Assad’s rule came when Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) launched an offensive, capturing the capital Damascus. Iran has historically supported Assad’s government during the civil war, providing military assistance and advisers. However, with HTS’s new leadership expressing opposition to Iran’s involvement, the nature of diplomatic and logistical operations between the two nations has been severely impacted. Consequently, the suspension of flights reflects the broader geopolitical uncertainties shaping Iran-Syria relations.
In summary, Iranian flights to Syria are suspended until late January 2025, amid the political turmoil following the fall of President Bashar al-Assad. Tehran’s historical alliance with the Syrian regime is facing challenges due to the emergence of a new ruling authority, which has complicated travel and diplomatic relations. The advice against travel underscores the precarious situation for Iranian citizens in the region as new political realities take shape.
Original Source: jordantimes.com
