Dangerous Tradition in Lebanon: 4 Children Injured by Celebration Gunfire

UNICEF representative in Lebanon, Edward Pegebrider, stated that "reports indicated that in the past 48 hours, at least four children have sustained serious injuries due to stray bullets resulting from what is called celebratory gunfire following the announcement of the parliamentary election results in Lebanon." He noted in a statement that "children and youth in Lebanon are increasingly exposed to armed violence occurring between homes and in alleys and neighborhoods," emphasizing that "no child should live in fear," and reminding "caregivers, local communities, and official authorities of their direct responsibility to prevent children from being exposed to any form of danger that may threaten their lives and well-being." He asserted that "what is termed celebratory gunfire is an extremely dangerous tradition that must be ended. Gunfire into the air cannot be justified under any circumstance or occasion, including the use of heavy weapons, especially in populated areas among local communities." He mentioned that "armed violence impacts children's lives, as many are killed or injured, or lose family members or loved ones due to shooting incidents. No child should be pushed to participate in acts of violence or be a witness to or a target of such acts." He called upon "families, communities, community leaders, and local authorities to fulfill their responsibilities and ensure the safety and security of children in Lebanon, wherever they may be."