First Syrian in space Muhammed Faris dies in Türkiye
Former Syrian astronaut Muhammed Faris, who sought refuge in Türkiye during the civil war, dies. Known as the first Syrian in space, his journey in 1987 made history
Former Syrian Brigadier General Muhammed Faris, the first Syrian cosmonaut who flew to space in 1987, has passed away in Türkiye. Faris had sought refuge in Türkiye to escape the Syrian civil war.
The news of his death was confirmed by Hadi al-Bahra, president of the Syrian Opposition and Revolutionary Forces National Coalition. Details surrounding Faris' passing are not currently available.
Faris' life was deeply affected not only by his journey to space but also by the tragedy of the civil war in Syria. The 73-year-old reportedly passed away in Türkiye on Friday. A graduate of the Aleppo Air Force Academy, he made history as Syria's first cosmonaut in 1973 and went to space in 1987. His space journey was met with great enthusiasm, but due to the impact of the civil war in his country, he had to seek refuge in Türkiye.
'Türkiye embraced us and took care of us'
Faris' time in Turkey was marked not only by refuge but also by gratitude. In 2019, he spoke out at an event protesting racist attacks against Syrians, expressing his deep appreciation for Türkiye's embrace of refugees. He specifically praised the country's positive and humane approach, which he said fostered a sense of belonging and comfort among Syrian refugees. Faris' advocacy for his fellow Syrians will not be forgotten.
Source: Newsroom
