Iran Suspends Flights to Syria Amid Political Turmoil Until January 2024

Iran has suspended flights to Syria until January 22, 2024, following the fall of President Bashar al-Assad and the rise of the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham group. The Iranian Civil Aviation Organisation stated that entry permits from Syria are currently not granted. Many Iranians have left Syria amidst the unrest, and the government has advised against travel to the region.

Iran has announced that its flights to Syria will remain suspended until late January, according to reports from local media on December 24, 2024. This decision follows the departure of long-time ally President Bashar al-Assad from power due to a rapid offensive by rebel forces, notably the Sunni Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS). Hossein Pourfarzaneh, head of Iran’s Civil Aviation Organisation, stated, “Currently, flights to Syria will not be allowed until January 22, after the New Year holidays,” highlighting that entry permits from the destination country are essential for international flights. In the wake of HTS’s takeover, many Iranians have evacuated Syria, with reports of unrest including vandalism at the Iranian embassy in Damascus. Furthermore, the Iranian Foreign Ministry indicated a lack of direct communication with Syria’s new ruling authority and has advised against travel to Syria given the critical developments.

The suspension of Iranian flights to Syria comes amid significant political changes in the Syrian landscape, notably the ousting of President Bashar al-Assad, a figure long supported by Tehran during the civil conflict. The rise of HTS and its leadership’s open hostility towards Iranian involvement in Syria presents a new reality for both nations. With Iran’s military and diplomatic presence in Syria historically tied to Assad, this shift necessitates reevaluation of relations and policies as a new power dynamic unfolds.

In summary, Iran has suspended its flights to Syria due to the recent political upheaval following the departure of President Bashar al-Assad. The Iranian government cites the need for entry permits from Syria’s new authorities, which are currently lacking. As thousands of Iranians vacate Syria amid escalating violence and instability, the situation continues to evolve, prompting Iran to caution its citizens against travel to the region at this time.

Original Source: jordantimes.com