Turkish Airlines bars Israeli, Iranian citizens from flights to Syria

January 17, 2025 – 12:19 AMT

PanARMENIAN.Net – Turkish Airlines (THY) has announced the resumption of flights to Damascus on January 23, marking its first flights to Syria since the onset of the civil war over a decade ago.

However, according to regulations issued by the Syrian government, Israeli and Iranian citizens will not be allowed entry into Syria. This announcement was published on THY’s official website, which also provided detailed travel guidelines for passengers traveling to Syria.

In line with directives from the Syrian Arab Republic, the following rules apply to entry into Syria:

-Israeli and Iranian citizens are prohibited from entering the country.

-Passengers must present proof of Syrian citizenship, if applicable.

-Lebanese citizens may enter if one parent is Syrian or if they hold valid residency or visas from other nations.

-Journalists must secure special authorization for entry into Syria.

The decision to reinstate flights to Damascus comes amid improving diplomatic relations between Turkey and Syria. THY had ceased operations in Syria more than ten years ago due to the ongoing conflict.

Turkish Airlines’ General Manager, Bilal Eksi, shared news of the resumption on social media. He said: “We are returning to Damascus. Starting on Thursday, January 23, we will begin flights to Damascus with three weekly departures. Best wishes.”

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