Iran has suspended flights to Syria until January 22, 2025, following significant political changes in Syria after the takeover of Damascus by HTS and the ousting of President Bashar al-Assad. The Iranian Civil Aviation Organisation stated that flights will not resume without the necessary entry permits from Syrian authorities, as the new regime has been openly critical of Iranian involvement.
Iranian flights to Syria will remain suspended until late January 2025, according to local media reports. This suspension follows the swift takeover of Damascus by rebel forces, specifically the Sunni Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), leading to the flight of long-time ally President Bashar al-Assad. Hossein Pourfarzaneh, head of the Iran Civil Aviation Organisation, indicated that entry and admission permits from the Syrian authorities are necessary for flights to resume. Current circumstances dictate that these flights will not be allowed until after January 22, 2025, post-New Year holidays. The exact date of the initial suspension remains unclear.
The geopolitical context surrounding this development highlights Iran’s significant involvement in Syria, where it supported Assad during the prolonged civil conflict with military assistance. However, the recent shift in control away from the Assad regime has encouraged a mass exit of Iranian residents from Syria, coinciding with the vandalism of Tehran’s embassy in Damascus. HTS leader Ahmed al-Sharaa has openly criticized Iran’s influence within Syria. Additionally, Iran’s foreign ministry confirmed the lack of direct communication with Syria’s new ruling entity, further advising against any travel to Syria for Iranians amidst the ongoing turmoil.
The current suspension of Iranian flights to Syria comes against the backdrop of significant political changes in Syria, particularly following the escape of President Bashar al-Assad as rebel forces made significant advances in Damascus. Iran has long supported Assad’s regime throughout the civil war, providing military assistance. The ascent of HTS presents a turning point in the relationship between Iran and Syria, leading to instability that affects travel and diplomatic engagements. The perceived threat to Iranian interests in Syria is exacerbated by the vandalism of its embassy and the rising opposition from the new ruling authorities.
In conclusion, the suspension of flights between Iran and Syria marks a pivotal moment following the recent political upheaval in Syria, underscoring the potential decline of Iranian influence in the region. As the situation evolves, the Iranian government appears cautious, advising its citizens against travel to Syria while the implications of these geopolitical shifts continue to unfold. This development reflects not only the changing dynamics within Syria but also the broader impact on regional alliances and relationships.
Original Source: jordantimes.com
