Regular Flights Between Syria and Saudi Arabia Resume After More Than a Decade

In a significant development signaling a thaw in relations between Syria and Saudi Arabia, regular flights between Damascus and Riyadh have resumed after more than a decade, as reported by Syrian state media. The resumption of flights marks a notable shift since the severance of ties between the two countries in 2012 following President Bashar Assad's crackdown on anti-government protesters at the onset of the civil war. Despite this history, most Arab nations have restored diplomatic relations with Damascus, with Syria being readmitted to the 22-member Arab League last year. Syria's ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Ayman Soussan, described the resumption of flights as a positive step in the ongoing development of relations between the two nations. State news agency SANA reported his statement, emphasizing the significance of this move in fostering closer ties between Syria and Saudi Arabia. While Syrian pilgrims had previously traveled on a direct flight to Saudi Arabia for the annual Islamic Hajj pilgrimage in May, the recent Syrian Airlines flight to Riyadh marked the formal return of regular commercial flights between the two capitals. The resumption of regular flights between Damascus and Saudi Arabia comes amidst a broader trend of diplomatic normalization in the region, with several Arab countries reestablishing ties with Syria. This development underscores a shift in the geopolitical landscape of the Middle East, with countries like Syria making efforts to reintegrate into the regional diplomatic fold. The renewed air connectivity between the two nations is seen as a tangible manifestation of the improving relations and growing cooperation between Syria and Saudi Arabia. As Syria continues to navigate its post-civil war reconstruction and reintegration into the international community, the resumption of commercial flights with Saudi Arabia represents a significant milestone in its diplomatic efforts. The move is expected to facilitate increased people-to-people exchanges, trade, and cultural interactions between the two countries, contributing to a broader process of regional reconciliation and stability. The renewed air link serves as a symbol of hope for enhanced cooperation and dialogue in the Middle East, signaling a potential path towards greater regional harmony and collaboration.