Syria and Iraq Resume Direct Flights to Russia

Syria and Iraq have resumed direct flights to Russia, restoring air connections that were halted amid political changes in Damascus and the war in Iran, according to Russian media reports. The renewed services come as most Western governments still urge their citizens not to visit Syria and large parts of Iraq because of the risks of terrorism, armed conflict and kidnapping.

Syrian Airlines has started selling tickets for flights between Damascus and Moscow's Sheremetyevo Airport. RTVI reported that this marks the first resumption of direct air travel between the two countries since the fall of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad. The first flight is scheduled for Aug. 16, with services operating once a week on Sundays. The flight will take approximately four hours and 50 minutes, with economy-class fares starting at around $350.

Iraqi Airways separately resumed flights between Baghdad and Moscow on Tuesday, following a suspension caused by the closure of airspace across parts of the Middle East during the war in Iran. The airline will operate two flights per week.

Iraq's ambassador to Moscow, Abdul-Karim Hashim Mustafa, said the country is safe for tourists. 'Restaurants are open until 2 a.m. So life is absolutely safe,' he said when asked about the prospects of attracting Russian tourists.

Despite the restoration of air links, the United States, Britain, Germany, France, Canada and Australia continue to warn their citizens against travel to Syria and Iraq, citing terrorism, armed clashes, kidnapping, political instability and limited consular assistance. Warnings for Syria remain particularly strict, with Western governments advising against all travel to the country. Large parts of Iraq are also still considered unsafe for visitors.