The phenomenon of gunfire and fireworks marking the New Year in several provinces continues.

Imagine starting each new year with a grim reminder deeply rooted within you, intensifying the fear you've always tried to escape from.

This is precisely what happens to Syrians every year. Those who dread the sound of a forcefully shut door as 2023 closed its doors with the familiar sound of bullets, a bitterness they've tasted for the past 12 years.

Yet, as the new year commences, crowds gather on streets with substantial numbers, often with their children, heedless of the consequences of their actions. However, venturing into Syrian streets costs at least a part of your body, even if your mother approves. God forbid, angering her on such a night might cost you your life.

Despite laws prohibiting gunfire or weapon use and warnings from the Ministry of Interior, several Syrian provinces witnessed deaths and injuries due to celebratory gunfire accompanying the New Year's arrival. The losses from stray bullets pierced fuel or water tanks, in addition to damaging solar panels.

Instead of families welcoming the new year with hope, they welcomed it in hospitals due to injuries, and at times, fatalities.

According to experts, the phenomenon of indiscriminate gunfire, whether in celebration or otherwise, is extremely dangerous. Its impact extends beyond physical harm, leading to fatalities, disabilities, or severe injuries to citizens hit by stray bullets.

The issue of random gunfire at events is a grave social problem that existed but worsened throughout Syria's crisis years. Despite legal provisions aimed at addressing this issue, enforcement alone achieves little. For instance, firing any military weapon is considered attempted murder, even if criminal intent or the desired outcome is absent.

Reports indicate dozens of injuries due to random gunfire and fireworks on New Year's Eve, distributed across hospitals in Aleppo, Damascus, Latakia, Tartous, Sweida, and Homs.

Amidst complaints and concerns about this phenomenon worsening during events and holidays, why do public gatherings persist during such times?

Laws alone are insufficient to end a rampant social issue. Self-regulation and a natural course of action should start within each individual; only then will there be an improvement in circumstances."