Syria’s Ministry of Awqaf said two aircraft carrying nearly 700 Syrian pilgrims from Madinah were diverted to Amman after airspace disruptions linked to the latest exchange of attacks between Iran and Israel.

The ministry said the passengers were transferred by bus from Jordan to Syria, with each vehicle carrying between 35 and 40 pilgrims destined for Damascus and Aleppo.

The disruption followed temporary airspace closures by both Syria and Iraq after Iran launched missiles toward Israel and Israel responded with airstrikes overnight. Iraqi authorities initially announced a 72-hour closure of national airspace on Sunday before later reopening it. Despite the reopening, several commercial flights across the region remained canceled.

The delays underscore the continuing impact of the regional conflict on civilian aviation networks across the Middle East, where airlines have repeatedly altered routes or suspended services because of security concerns.

Syrian authorities said approximately 24,500 Syrians participated in this year’s Hajj pilgrimage to Makkah and Madinah, which concluded in late May.

The first group of returning pilgrims arrived in Damascus last week aboard a Syrian Airlines flight from Jeddah carrying 134 passengers, according to the Syrian Arab News Agency.

The conflict involving Iran, Israel and the United States has increasingly affected regional transportation and aviation infrastructure, forcing airlines and authorities to adjust operations amid recurring missile, drone and airstrike activity across the Middle East.

The high-level meeting comes as 22,500 Syrian pilgrims began their spiritual journey on the first official day of the Hajj pilgrimage, which will conclude on June 9.

Minister Shukri praised the Kingdom’s meticulous organization, healthcare services, and logistical support, calling Saudi Arabia’s efforts “a model of care and dedication.” He highlighted the importance of continued bilateral cooperation to ensure a smooth and spiritually enriching experience for all pilgrims.

He also reaffirmed the commitment of Syrian pilgrims to abide by Saudi guidelines and regulations, acknowledging the Kingdom’s central role in maintaining the sanctity, safety, and smooth flow of Hajj rituals.

Minister Shukri conveyed the greetings of Syrian President Ahmad Al-Sharaa to the Saudi leadership. President Al-Sharaa had earlier addressed Syrian pilgrims in Makkah via video call, urging them to act as “ambassadors of Syria” by demonstrating exemplary conduct during their pilgrimage.

For his part, Dr. Al-Rabiah expressed appreciation for the cooperation and discipline shown by Syrian pilgrims, and extended the Kingdom’s well-wishes for peace and stability in Syria, according to the official Syrian Arab News Agency (SANA).

The meeting underscores the growing coordination between Damascus and Riyadh in the realm of religious affairs, particularly as the Kingdom continues to extend equal and dignified treatment to pilgrims of all nationalities, fostering unity through faith.