First International Flight Lands in Damascus After Assad’s Fall \ Newslooks \ Washington DC \ Mary Sidiqi \ Evening Edition \ For the first time since the fall of Bashar Assad, Damascus International Airport received an international commercial flight, marking a symbolic step toward Syria’s reintegration. Qatar Airways landed in the capital as nations reopened ties with Syria’s new authorities, led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham. Syrian officials emphasized rebuilding efforts and cracking down on illicit trade like Captagon. Jordan also initiated steps to resume flights and discussed cooperation on critical sectors, including energy and trade, to aid Syria’s recovery after years of war and sanctions.
Syria’s First International Flight Since Assad: Quick Looks
- Historic Landing: Qatar Airways resumes flights to Damascus after over a decade.
- Passenger Returns: Many Syrians visit home for the first time since the civil war began in 2011.
- Airport Rehabilitation: Qatar assisted in repairing damages from neglect and Israeli airstrikes.
- Jordan’s Involvement: Jordan tested flights to Damascus and pledged support for Syrian recovery.
- Focus on Rebuilding: Syria’s new leaders aim to rebuild infrastructure and curb Captagon smuggling.
Deep Look
The resumption of international flights to Damascus marks a significant milestone in Syria’s path to recovery following the fall of former President Bashar Assad. On Tuesday, a Qatar Airways flight landed at Damascus International Airport for the first time in over a decade, greeted by passengers’ families and friends in a moment that symbolized Syria’s tentative reentry into global networks.
Symbolic Landing in Damascus
The arrival of the Qatar Airways flight signals a turning point for the country, whose air transport infrastructure had suffered years of neglect under Assad’s regime and frequent Israeli airstrikes targeting suspected weapons transfers. Syrian Air Transport Authority head Ashad al-Suleibi acknowledged the challenges in rehabilitating the airport and described the damage caused by both the Assad regime and external attacks.
“Honestly, there was a lot of damage from the [Assad] regime to this lively airport and Aleppo airport as well,” he said.
The flight carried many Syrian expatriates, some returning home for the first time since the civil war erupted in 2011. Osama Musalama, arriving from the United States, expressed a mix of relief and disbelief. “I lost hope that I would come back to Syria,” he said. “Thank God the country is back to its people.”
Regional Engagement and Diplomatic Rebuilding
The reopening of Damascus International Airport coincides with intensified efforts by Syria’s new de facto authorities, led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), to restore international relations. Since Assad’s removal in a lightning rebel offensive a month ago, Arab and Western nations have begun normalizing ties with the Islamist-led government.
Syria’s Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shibani has spearheaded diplomatic outreach, traveling to Gulf nations including Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE. These countries are expected to play a central role in financing Syria’s reconstruction after 14 years of devastating civil war. On Tuesday, al-Shibani visited Jordan to meet with Foreign Minister Ayman al-Safadi, where they discussed cooperation on borders, security, transportation, trade, and other sectors critical to rebuilding Syria’s shattered economy.
Jordan’s Role in Syria’s Revival
Jordan, once a primary route for smuggling Captagon amphetamines from Syria to Gulf states, has welcomed the new Syrian government’s crackdown on the illicit trade. The Captagon trade was a significant point of contention between Jordan and Assad’s regime. Syrian authorities have dismantled former Captagon factories at locations such as the Mazzeh air base in Damascus and a factory in Douma.
In a joint news conference with al-Safadi, al-Shibani pledged that Syria would no longer pose a security threat to Jordan, stating, “We pledge that this thing has ended and will not return again.”
Al-Safadi echoed Jordan’s commitment to Syria’s recovery, saying, “We support the Syrian people as they rebuild their homeland… Jordan is ready to provide electricity and gas immediately to our brothers.”
Syria’s Economic Woes and Reconstruction Needs
Syria remains mired in an economic crisis, exacerbated by Western sanctions that limit its ability to import essential goods and technology. Most Syrians endure severe power shortages, with state electricity available for only a few hours each day.
The Gulf states’ potential involvement in Syria’s reconstruction offers a glimmer of hope. However, the scale of devastation after years of conflict requires coordinated international efforts. The new government’s outreach to neighbors like Jordan reflects a pragmatic strategy to rebuild critical infrastructure and reestablish trade and energy cooperation.
Hope Amid Uncertainty
The reopening of Damascus International Airport and the resumption of flights serve as powerful symbols of resilience for a country ravaged by war. For many Syrians, the return of international connectivity represents a tentative step toward normalcy and healing. However, the road to full recovery will be long, requiring sustained diplomatic engagement, economic support, and continued efforts to stabilize the nation.
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