BAGHDAD, Iraq – A total of 564 people were injured during New Year’s Eve celebrations across Iraq, as fireworks, live ammunition, and road accidents led to numerous casualties, the Ministry of Health reported.
Saif Al-Badr, the spokesperson for the Ministry of Health, confirmed the alarming figures in a statement released on January 1, 2025.
According to Al-Badr, 143 individuals were injured by fireworks, which are often used as part of the revelry. These injuries ranged from burns of varying severity to direct harm to the eyes and limbs.
In a more troubling report, 40 people sustained injuries from live ammunition, which was also discharged during the celebrations. The reckless use of firearms is a common feature of Iraq’s New Year festivities, but this year’s events led to significant damage.
Al-Badr revealed that some of the injuries from the gunfire were critical and required hospitalization, with several patients being placed under intensive care due to the severity of their wounds.
A large portion of the injuries, 203 in total, were caused by road accidents. The festive atmosphere and increased traffic on the streets led to heightened risks for pedestrians and drivers alike.
Al-Badr highlighted that the chaos on the roads, especially in urban areas, contributed to the surge in accidents. Emergency services across the country were reportedly overwhelmed by the influx of cases requiring immediate medical attention.
As Iraq continues to grapple with ongoing social and security challenges, authorities have urged citizens to exercise caution during celebratory events.
Al-Badr called for stricter enforcement of safety regulations, particularly regarding the use of fireworks and firearms, which continue to pose significant dangers during public holidays.
The report also emphasizes the heavy strain placed on Iraq’s healthcare system, which already faces numerous challenges in the wake of years of conflict and underinvestment.
Medical facilities are often stretched thin, especially in the aftermath of major public events. Hospitals across the country were reportedly inundated with patients, many of whom required urgent care due to the nature of their injuries.
In response to the situation, several officials have pledged to improve public awareness campaigns about the dangers associated with fireworks and the illegal use of firearms in public celebrations.
Authorities are also discussing potential legal measures aimed at curbing the use of live ammunition during New Year’s Eve events, hoping to reduce the number of injuries and fatalities in future years.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks involved in large-scale public celebrations, particularly in countries with ongoing security challenges like Iraq.
While the festivities are meant to mark the beginning of a new year, the events have tragically highlighted the dangers that can arise when safety is not prioritized.
Authorities are now faced with the task of balancing tradition with public safety to prevent similar incidents in the future.