The long-awaited return of international travel to Syria has begun, with the first international commercial flight since the fall of former President Bashar al-Assad landing at Damascus International Airport on January 7, 2025. The historic flight, operated by Qatar Airways, brought home several Syrian nationals who had been away for over a decade, marking a significant moment in the nation's gradual return to normalcy.

Welcomed by family and friends inside the terminal, the flight symbolizes a critical transition for a country that has endured years of conflict. As stated by Ashad al-Suleibi, head of Syria’s Air Transport Authority, "There was a lot of damage from the (Assad) regime to this lively area and this lively airport" following years of neglect and periodic airstrikes from Israel.

The landing was quickly followed by a test flight from Jordan, as both countries seek to re-establish air travel operations. Jordan's Civil Aviation Regulatory Commission commented on the mission's goal to assess the airport's readiness for regular operations.

Syria's new foreign minister, Asaad al-Shibani, has actively pursued international reintegration, visiting countries including Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE. The newly formed interim government, led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), has faced mixed global reactions, as many remain cautious due to the group’s past associations with terrorist activities, despite their efforts to pivot towards a more inclusive governance structure.

Western nations have expressed a mix of optimism and wariness. During a recent visit, Germany's foreign minister Annalena Baerbock underscored, "Europe will support, but Europe will not be a patron of new Islamist structures." While the US administration has eased some humanitarian aid restrictions, strict sanctions remain as obstacles to Syria's economic recovery.

In light of the profound humanitarian and economic crisis exacerbated by sanctions, al-Shibani has called for their immediate removal, proposing that since the ousting of Assad, light should be shed on restoring normalcy. He vehemently argued, "Those economic sanctions are now being wielded against the Syrian people."

The resumption of international flights and reopening of diplomatic channels is seen as a critical step toward rebuilding a nation that has been shattered by long-term conflict. Both internal and external stakeholders are closely watching how Syria navigates this new phase and whether it can secure the necessary support for lasting peace and stability.

For more detailed coverage on this developing story, see the full articles from NY Times, Al Jazeera, and NPR.