Iranian flights to Syria are suspended until January 22 following the removal of President Bashar al-Assad by rebel forces. The Iranian Civil Aviation Organisation cited the need for entry permits from Syria, while the Iranian foreign ministry warned against travel to Syria due to the recent instability.
Iran’s flights to Syria are set to remain suspended until January 22, as reported by local media. This decision follows the recent displacement of Bashar al-Assad, a long-time ally of Iran, as rebel forces affiliated with the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) seized control of Damascus. Hossein Pourfarzaneh, the head of Iran’s Civil Aviation Organisation, stated that the suspension is largely due to the requirement of entry and admission permits from the destination country. The exact timing of the initial suspension of flights has not been disclosed, but it is evident that political turmoil within Syria has significantly affected flight operations. With thousands of Iranians evacuating Syria amid the takeover, the Iranian foreign ministry has advised against travel to the region and reported that there is currently “no direct contact” with the new ruling authority in Syria. The situation remains fluid, and it is unclear how relations between Iran and Syria will evolve in the wake of these developments.
The ongoing conflict in Syria, which began in 2011, has drawn much international attention. Iran has played a crucial role in supporting the Assad regime through military assistance and resources. However, the recent shift in power dynamics, especially with the advancement of opposition forces like HTS, has left Iran’s influence uncertain. The political landscape is changing, and the implications of these changes extend to diplomatic relations, travel, and safety for Iranian nationals in Syria.
In conclusion, Iranian flights to Syria have been suspended until late January following significant political changes in Syria. This suspension underscores the complexities faced by Iran in maintaining its strategic interests in the region amid the shifting power dynamics instigated by the HTS takeover. With recommendations against travel and the absence of direct communication with Syria’s new authority, the situation remains precarious for citizens and for Iran’s regional influence.
Original Source: jordantimes.com
