In brief
In a significant move towards normalization, Syria’s main airport, Damascus International, welcomed international flights for the first time on January 7, 2025, following the collapse of Bashar al-Assad's government. The resumption of flights comes as a part of efforts by the country's new Islamist leadership, represented by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, to stabilize the war-ravaged nation and foster a sense of normalcy. A Qatar Airways flight from Doha marked this historic reopening, alongside Jordan offering flights for the first time in over a decade to show solidarity.
The interim government has announced plans to form a committee to draft a new constitution and is urging civil servants to return to work. While there is cautious optimism among Western leaders about the political shift, they remain hesitant regarding the Islamist administration's influence and the ongoing international sanctions that continue to burden the Syrian populace. Recently, the Biden administration eased some humanitarian restrictions but retained strict sanctions, which Syria's new foreign minister argues are now unjust. The push for a comprehensive political transition and lifting of sanctions indicates a critical juncture for Syria as it navigates its future post-Assad.
