Commercial flights between Turkey and Syria resumed after 13 years, initiated by a Turkish Airlines flight to Damascus. Passengers celebrated their return, expressing emotional ties to their homeland and optimism for the future. This development comes in the wake of new political dynamics following the ousting of President Bashar Assad, with Turkey actively engaging in renewed diplomatic efforts with Syria.
On Thursday, commercial flights between Turkey and Syria recommenced after a hiatus of 13 years, marked by a Turkish Airlines flight from Istanbul to Damascus. Turkish media depicted scenes of Syrian families adorned in their national flags, singing pro-opposition songs while preparing for flight TK0846. In the aircraft, passengers celebrated, singing the familiar uprising anthem, highlighting their emotional journeys back to Syria after years of separation.
The resumption of commercial flights is significant as it follows the recent political changes in Syria, primarily the ousting of President Bashar Assad. The new powers in Syria, led by the Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), have prompted neighboring countries and others to restore diplomatic ties. This shift is indicative of broader regional dynamics and Turkey’s role as a key ally of the new authorities in Syria, aiming to revitalize economic cooperation and facilitate investments in various sectors.
In conclusion, the revival of commercial flights signals a transformative moment in Syrian-Turkish relations, reflecting new political realities. Passengers express their hopes for the future and a desire to reconnect with their homeland. This development marks a significant step in restoring direct communication and fostering goodwill between the two nations, facilitated by recent political shifts.
Original Source: apnews.com
