After 13 years, commercial flights resumed between Turkey and Syria with Turkish Airlines leading the way. Passengers expressed joy and nostalgia as they prepared to return to their homeland. This development signals a shift in diplomatic relations following changes in the Syrian government. Turkey is expected to maintain close economic ties with the new authorities in Syria.
Commercial flights between Turkey and Syria resumed on Thursday after a hiatus of 13 years, marked by a Turkish Airlines flight from Istanbul to Damascus. Syrian families celebrated, donning their national flag and singing pro-opposition songs while preparing to board flight TK0846. Onboard, passengers continued their jubilant expressions, chanting the uprising anthem, “Hold your head up high, you are a free Syrian,” as emotions ran high, with some visibly moved by the experience.
Fuad Abdulhalid, a passenger who had resided in Turkey for 12 years, expressed his joy, stating, “I missed Syria and am happy to fly back.” Nail Beyazid, another traveler, shared his optimism as he prepared to return to Syria for the first time since his departure. “We are very happy that Syria was liberated, and the situation is very good,” he remarked, reflecting on his lost possessions and the desire to see his homeland again.
The resumption of flights follows a significant political shift, with former enemies of the Syrian government beginning to forge diplomatic relations with the newly-established authorities run by the Islamist group, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham. Earlier this month, the first international commercial flight since President Bashar Assad was ousted from power arrived in Damascus, indicating a gradual reopening of direct links to the Syrian capital.
The resumption of commercial flights between Turkey and Syria signifies a noteworthy development in regional relations after a protracted period of isolation. The flights are part of an emerging trend as various Arab and Western nations are rekindling diplomatic ties with the Syrian authorities, particularly after the recent changes in the Syrian government structure. Turkish Airlines plans to operate three weekly flights, illustrating Turkey’s role as a significant ally to the nascent regime.
The return of commercial flights from Turkey to Syria not only marks a significant reopening in travel after over a decade of conflict but also underscores ongoing diplomatic advancements between nations in the region. As Turkey seeks to enhance its economic ties and support Syrian authorities, the renewed accessibility may provide emotional relief and a sense of hope for many Syrians eager to return home.
Original Source: apnews.com
