Tehran: Iran and Saudi Arabia resumed flights on Tuesday after a suspension of nine years. Iranian news agency ISNA said a flight operated by Iran Air flew from the northeastern city of Mashhad to Dammam in eastern Saudi Arabia. The broadcaster reported that both countries agreed to fly two weekly flights between Mashhad and Dammam. According to Anadolu Agency, Dammam, the capital of Saudi Arabia's Eastern Province, is home to a significant Shia Muslim minority. In September 2023, diplomatic representation between Saudi Arabia and Iran was restored after an eight-year hiatus. This development followed a mutual agreement in March 2023, facilitated by China, to resume diplomatic relations.