Editing Overview of gun laws by nation (section)

==Asia==
===Afghanistan===
{{more citations needed section|date=January 2021}}
Automatic rifles are restricted to government forces and security companies in Afghanistan. Handguns, while allowed, are mostly issued for important people. Non-automatic rifles can be obtained for sports and hunting. Rules regarding shotguns and antique firearms are most permissive with no good reason required. Shotguns including pump-action shotguns are popular in some regions as self-defense weapons.

===Bangladesh===
{{more citations needed section|date=January 2021}}
Gun laws are very restrictive in Bangladesh. Only people over the age of 25 (30 for handguns) and under 60 who pay taxes can apply for firearm licence. Self-defence is only accepted reason and requires proving danger to life. Legal owners can only own one long gun (shotgun or rifle) and one handgun (pistol or revolver).<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://bdlaws.minlaw.gov.bd/act-38.html|title=The Arms Act, 1878|website=bdlaws.minlaw.gov.bd}}</ref> They cannot work as security guards.

===Brunei===
Firearms are prohibited for citizens. Military and police personnel may apply for a licence to keep a private firearm by establishing a genuine reason, such as sport shooting or gun collecting.<ref>{{cite web |title=Guns in Brunei Darussalam |publisher=Minister of the People's Power for Interior Relations and Justice |website=GunPolicy.org |url=https://www.gunpolicy.org/firearms/region/brunei |access-date=14 June 2023 |archive-date=15 June 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230615210720/https://www.gunpolicy.org/firearms/region/brunei |url-status=dead }}</ref>

===Cambodia===
Firearms are completely prohibited for civilian use without exceptions since 1999.<ref name=cambodia/>

=== China ===
{{main|Gun control in China}}
Gun ownership in the [[China|People's Republic of China]] (PRC) is regulated by law. Generally, private citizens are not allowed to possess guns. Civilian ownership of guns is largely restricted to authorized, non-individual entities, including sporting organizations, authorized hunting reserves, and wildlife protection, management and research organizations. The chief exception to the general ban on individual firearm ownership is for the purpose of hunting.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.sd.xinhuanet.com/qdzfw/2006-03/02/content_6359961.htm|title=中华人民共和国枪支管理法 (Firearm Administration Law of the People's Republic of China)|publisher=Sd.xinhuanet.com|access-date=18 February 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170501164353/http://www.sd.xinhuanet.com/qdzfw/2006-03/02/content_6359961.htm|archive-date=1 May 2017|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nre.cn/htm/04/flfg/2004-03-25-10816.htm|title=中华人民共和国猎枪弹具管理办法 (Hunting Firearm, Ammunition and Equipment Administration Regulation of the People's Republic of China)|publisher=Nre.cn|access-date=18 February 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304094243/http://www.nre.cn/htm/04/flfg/2004-03-25-10816.htm|archive-date=4 March 2016|url-status=dead}}</ref>
Illegal possession or sale of firearms may result in a minimum punishment of three years in prison,<ref name="Chinadaily.com.cn">{{cite web |url=http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/china/2007-04/21/content_856308.htm |title=China Reiterates Stance on Gun Control|publisher=Chinadaily.com.cn|access-date=18 February 2015}}</ref> and penalties for the trafficking of "arms and ammunition or other military materials to an enemy during war time" include life imprisonment.<ref>{{cite web |title=Criminal Law of the People's Republic of China |quote=arms and ammunition or other military materials to an enemy during war time |website=fmprc.gov.cn |access-date=13 October 2019|url=https://www.ilo.org/dyn/natlex/docs/ELECTRONIC/5375/108071/F-78796243/CHN5375%20Eng3.pdf|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221228092950/https://www.ilo.org/dyn/natlex/docs/ELECTRONIC/5375/108071/F-78796243/CHN5375%20Eng3.pdf|archive-date=28 December 2022}}</ref>

====Hong Kong and Macau====
In [[Hong Kong]] and [[Macau]], gun ownership is tightly controlled and possession is mainly in the hands of law enforcement, military, and private security firms (providing protection for jewelers and banks). Under Section 13 of Cap 238 Firearms and Ammunition Ordinance of Hong Kong, a license is required for unrestricted firearms and ammunition.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.police.gov.hk/ppp_en/04_crime_matters/cpa/cpa_at_01.html |title=Hong Kong Police Force – Advice for Tourists |publisher=Police.gov.hk |access-date=2014-04-19}}</ref> A license may be issued after a rigorous process to check for criminal records or a history of mental illness. License holders may store other firearms at home in a locked box, but ammunition must be kept at different premises.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.hklii.org/hk/legis/en/ord/238/s13.html |title=CAP 238 FIREARMS AND AMMUNITION ORDINANCE s 13 Possession of arms or ammunition without license |publisher=Hklii.org |access-date=2014-04-19}}</ref> Only fully automatic firearms appear prohibited; those found in possession without a license could be fined at level 6 of the standard scale<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.elegislation.gov.hk/hk/2019/er6!en |title=Editorial Record (E.R. 6 nof 2019) – e-Legislation Public Ordinance (Cap. 614) |publisher=elegislation.gov.hk|access-date=2020-05-02}}</ref> ("Maximum fine of HKD $100,000") and face imprisonment for up to 14 years.<ref>{{cite web |title=Safe Use of Air Guns |url=https://www.police.gov.hk/ppp_en/11_useful_info/licences/airgun_txt.html |website=Hong Kong Police Force |access-date=13 October 2019}}</ref>

===India===
{{Main|Gun law in India}}
Guns in [[India]] are regulated by law. The [[Arms Act, 1959]] and the Arms Rules 1962 prohibit the sale, manufacture, possession, acquisition, import, export, and transport of firearms and ammunition unless under a license, which is difficult to obtain. The Indian Government has a monopoly over the production and sale of firearms, with the exception of some breech-loading smooth-bore shotguns, of which a limited number may be produced and imported.<ref name="Lakshmi">{{cite news|url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/01/31/AR2010013102079.html |title=New groups mobilize as Indians embrace the right to bear arms |newspaper=The Washington Post |date= 1 February 2010|access-date=17 March 2010 | first=Rama | last=Lakshmi}}</ref> The Arms Act classifies firearms into two categories: Prohibited Bore (PB) and Non-Prohibited Bore (NPB), where all semi-automatic and fully automatic firearms fall under the Prohibited Bore category. The Arms Act of 1962 added to the Prohibited bore category, any firearm which can chamber and fire ammunition of calibers .303, 7.62&nbsp;mm, .410, .380, .455, .45 rimless, or 9&nbsp;mm. Smooth-bore guns having barrels shorter than 20 Inches (508&nbsp;mm) are also specified as Prohibited guns.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://delhipolicelicensing.gov.in/lists/THE-ARMS-RULES-1962.pdf |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130901074834/http://delhipolicelicensing.gov.in/lists/THE-ARMS-RULES-1962.pdf |archive-date=2013-09-01 |url-status=live |title=The arms Rules, 1962 |publisher=Delhipolicelicensing.gov.in |access-date=18 February 2015}}</ref>

Licenses for acquisition and possession of both PB and NPB firearms could be given by a [[state governments of India|state government]] or [[district collector|district magistrate]] before 1987. Since that year, issuing of licenses for PB firearms became the responsibility of the [[Central government of India|central government]]. Licenses are valid for five years and may be renewed after the term. The sale of firearms requires both the selling and purchasing party to possess a permit.<ref name="Indian home ministry">{{cite web
|url= https://www.mha.gov.in/sites/default/files/ActAndRuleThe%20ArmsAct_17122019_0.pdf
|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211123142416/https://www.mha.gov.in/sites/default/files/ActAndRuleThe%20ArmsAct_17122019_0.pdf
|archive-date=23 November 2021
 |title= Ministry of Law and justice - mha.gov.in/THE ARMS (AMENDMENT) ACT, 2019
 |date= 13 December 2020
 |website= MINISTRY OF HOME AFFAIRS
 |publisher= GOVERNMENT OF INDIA MINISTRY OF HOME AFFAIRS
 |access-date= 22 November 2021
}}</ref>

The criteria considered during issuing of NPB firearm permits are whether the applicant faces a threat to their life. PB firearms criteria are more stringent, often for persons in government positions who face immediate danger or threats, those whose occupations involve open threats and danger, and their immediate family members. PB licenses were tightened since 2014, when otherwise-eligible persons started to be frequently rejected on basis of national security grounds.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.uncjin.org/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090208084652/http://www.uncjin.org/Statistics/firearms|url-status=dead|title=UNODC and Nutrisystem Can Unite In A Battle Against Addiction|archive-date=8 February 2009|website=www.uncjin.org}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.iansa.org/regions/scasia/scasia.htm |title= IANSA Regions: South and Central Asia|website=www.iansa.org |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101123105509/http://www.iansa.org/regions/scasia/scasia.htm |archive-date=23 November 2010}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://disarmament.un.org/cab/salw-nationalreports.html |title= Small arms and light weapons|website=disarmament.un.org |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20030604062803/http://disarmament.un.org/cab/salw-nationalreports.html |archive-date=4 June 2003}}</ref><ref>Graduate Institute of International Studies, Small Arms Survey 2003: Development Denied, Oxford: Oxford University Press, 2003, pp. 59–60; 112. Williams James Arputharaj, Chamila Thushani Hemmathagama and Saradha Nanayakkara, A Comparative Study of Small Arms Legislation in Bangladesh, India, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka, Colombo, Sri Lanka: South Asia Partnership (SAP) International, July 2003.</ref><ref>Niobe Thompson and Devashish Krishnan, "Small Arms in India and the Human Costs of Lingering Conflicts", in Abdel-Fatau Musah and Niobe Thompson, eds., Over a Barrel: Light Weapons and Human Rights in the Commonwealth, London and New Delhi: Commonwealth Human Rights Initiative (CHRI), November 1999, pp. 35–64.</ref><ref>{{cite web |author=Abhijeet Singh |url=http://www.abhijeetsingh.com/arms/india/laws/forms/ |title=Indian Legal Forms |publisher=Abhijeet Singh |date=1999-02-22 |access-date=2014-04-19 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121016000036/http://www.abhijeetsingh.com/arms/india/laws/forms/ |archive-date=16 October 2012 |url-status=dead }}</ref> Exceptions are made for defense officers, who are allowed to keep firearms without licenses under the Defence Service rule, and a handful of professional shooters.

Firearm licenses are issued on a may-issue basis and approximately half of applications are accepted. For example, between April 2015 and March 2016 authorities in [[Mumbai]] rejected 169 out of 342 firearm applications.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/mumbai/gun-culture-spreads-in-dombivli-legal-arms-used-to-settle-scores/articleshow/59117127.cms|title=Gun culture spreads in Dombivli: Legal arms used to settle scores |date=12 June 2017}}</ref>

===Indonesia===
In [[Indonesia]], gun licenses are only issued to civilians employed in a profession that involves using firearms, such as in the military and law enforcement, with an exception made for politicians and businessmen.

Applicants must be over the age of 21 to obtain a firearms license, and go through a background check and mental evaluation. They must also state a genuine reason for wanting to own a firearm, which can include hunting, target shooting, collecting, security, and self-defense. All firearms must be registered. Gun permits are valid for five years and may be renewed.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gunpolicy.org/firearms/region/indonesia |title=Guns in Indonesia – Firearms, gun law and gun control |website=Gunpolicy.org |date=2001-07-21 |access-date=2016-01-29|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230713083107/https://www.gunpolicy.org/firearms/region/indonesia|archive-date=13 July 2023}}</ref> Illegal gun ownership can be punished from a maximum of 20 years in prison to [[life in prison]] and [[Death penalty|death]] as per the provisions of Emergency Act no. 12, 1951.<ref>{{Cite web|last=WebAdm_LK2FHUI|date=2013-10-02|title=Pembatasan Kepemilikan Senjata Api oleh Masyarakat Sipil dalam Perspektif Hukum dan Sanksi Pidana atas Penyalahgunaannya|url=https://lk2fhui.law.ui.ac.id/pembatasan-kepemilikan-senjata-api-oleh-masyarakat-sipil-dalam-perspektif-hukum-dan-sanksi-pidana-atas-penyalahgunaannya/|website=LK2 FHUI|language=id|access-date=2024-05-16}}</ref>

Civilians cannot possess military weapons, but may possess long rifles. In 2012 however, it was claimed that police had been issuing permits to regular citizens.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://jakartaglobe.beritasatu.com/archive/indonesias-police-wont-stop-issuing-civilian-gun-permits/ |title=Indonesia's Police Won't Stop Issuing Civilian Gun Permits &#124; Jakarta Globe |website=Jakartaglobe.beritasatu.com |date=2012-05-07 |access-date=2016-01-29 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151004032640/http://jakartaglobe.beritasatu.com/archive/indonesias-police-wont-stop-issuing-civilian-gun-permits/ |archive-date=4 October 2015 |url-status=dead }}</ref>

=== Iran ===
There are 200.000 rifles registered for Nomads.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.khabaronline.ir/news/584570/%D8%B3%D8%A7%D9%85%D8%A7%D9%86%D8%AF%D9%87%DB%8C-%DB%B2%DB%B0%DB%B0-%D9%87%D8%B2%D8%A7%D8%B1-%D9%82%D8%A8%D8%B6%D9%87-%D8%B3%D9%84%D8%A7%D8%AD-%D8%B9%D8%B4%D8%A7%DB%8C%D8%B1-%DA%A9%D8%B4%D9%88%D8%B1 | title=ساماندهی ۲۰۰ هزار قبضه سلاح عشایر کشور | date=29 September 2016 }}</ref>
Iranian law had changed in 2021–22 with military, security and police having permit to access firearms use them preemptively.<ref>{{Cite news |title=تغییر در قانون اسلحه در ایران؛ "هر ماموری که مجوز سلاح دارد مجاز به استفاده از آن می‌شود" |url=https://www.bbc.com/persian/iran-61760207 |access-date=2022-06-17 |work=[[BBC News]] |language=fa}}</ref><ref>{{Citation |title=تغییر قانون استفاده از سلاح؛ سرکوبگر راحت‌تر شلیک کند؟ |date=12 June 2022 |url=https://www.radiofarda.com/a/31893926.html |language=fa |access-date=2022-06-17}}</ref> Airguns, airsoft guns and hunting rifles were criminalized September 2023.<ref>[https://www.etemadonline.com/%D8%A8%D8%AE%D8%B4-%D8%A7%D8%AC%D8%AA%D9%85%D8%A7%D8%B9%DB%8C-23/632520-%D8%B3%D9%84%D8%A7%D8%AD-%D8%AC%D9%86%DA%AF%DB%8C-%D8%B4%DA%A9%D8%A7%D8%B1%DB%8C-%D9%85%D8%AC%D9%84%D8%B3-%D9%85%D8%AC%D8%B1%D9%85 دارندگان این سلاح‌های جنگی و شکاری مجرم شناخته می‌شوند] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231022164128/https://www.etemadonline.com/%D8%A8%D8%AE%D8%B4-%D8%A7%D8%AC%D8%AA%D9%85%D8%A7%D8%B9%DB%8C-23/632520-%D8%B3%D9%84%D8%A7%D8%AD-%D8%AC%D9%86%DA%AF%DB%8C-%D8%B4%DA%A9%D8%A7%D8%B1%DB%8C-%D9%85%D8%AC%D9%84%D8%B3-%D9%85%D8%AC%D8%B1%D9%85|date=22 October 2023}}</ref>

===Iraq===
In 2012, Iraq relaxed its gun laws. The "possession of one rifle or pistol per home" was allowed via simple registration at local police stations.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Mohammed |first1=Abeer |title=Shock at Iraq Gun Law |url=https://iwpr.net/global-voices/shock-iraq-gun-law |website=iwpr.net |access-date=13 October 2019}}</ref>

In 2017, the law was relaxed once again. The possession and carrying of handguns, semi-automatic and fully automatic firearms and other weapons for self-defense, hunting and sport shooting purposes was allowed. Firearm licenses require official authorization and identity cards.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-iraq-guns-shops/baghdad-gun-shops-thrive-after-iraqi-rethink-on-arms-control-idUSKCN1L40DL|title=Baghdad gun shops thrive after Iraqi rethink on arms control |date=19 August 2018|newspaper=Reuters}}</ref><ref name=iraq/>

===Israel===
Gun laws in [[Israel]] are comprehensive despite soldiers being allowed to carry their service weapons on or off duty. Civilians must obtain a firearms license to lawfully acquire, possess, sell or transfer firearms and ammunition. In 2018, Israel loosened firearms restrictions, allowing all citizens who had undergone combat training and qualified in Advanced Infantry Training ('Rifleman "07"') to apply for a private handgun license.<ref>[https://www.israelnationalnews.com/News/News.aspx/248598 Israel significantly relaxes gun license regulations] Tzvi Lev, 08/07/18 15:57, Arutz 7</ref>

Prior to 2018, only a small group of people had been eligible for firearms licenses: certain retired military personnel, police officers or prison guards; Israeli residents of the occupied [[West Bank]] or those who often work there; and licensed hunters and animal-control officers. Age requirements vary: 21 for those who completed military service or civil service equivalent, 27 otherwise, and 45 for non-citizens. Firearm license applicants must have been a resident of Israel for at least three consecutive years, pass a background check (criminal, health, and mental history), establish a so-called "genuine reason" for possessing a firearm (such as self-defense, hunting, or sport), and pass a weapons-training course.<ref name="Israel">{{cite web|url=http://www.gunpolicy.org/firearms/region/israel|title=Guns in Israel – Firearms, gun law and gun control|author=Philip Alpers|access-date=3 May 2015|archive-date=25 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200825165658/https://www.gunpolicy.org/firearms/region/israel|url-status=dead}}</ref> As many as 40% of applications for firearms permits were rejected.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/worldviews/wp/2012/12/28/israeli-gun-laws-are-much-stricter-than-some-u-s-gun-advocates-suggest/|title=Israeli gun laws are much stricter than some U.S. gun advocates suggest|newspaper=The Washington Post|access-date=7 July 2017|date=28 December 2012|first=Max|last=Fisher}}</ref>

Those holding firearms licenses must renew them and pass a shooting course every three years. Security guards must pass these tests to renew their license to carry firearms belonging to their employers.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.jpost.com/Diplomacy-and-Politics/Knesset-tightens-gun-control-with-no-opposition-368584|title=Knesset tightens gun control with no opposition|work=The Jerusalem Post |access-date=7 July 2017|date=23 July 2014|first=Lahav|last=Harkov}}</ref> Applicants must demonstrate that they have a safe at their residence in which to keep the firearm. Permits are given only for personal use, and holders for self-defense purposes may own only one handgun and purchase an annual supply of 50 cartridges (although more may be purchased to replace rounds used at a firing range).<ref name="opposite">{{cite web|url=http://www.jpost.com/national-news/israeli-gun-control-regulations-opposite-of-us|title=Israeli gun control regulations 'opposite of US'|work=The Jerusalem Post |access-date=7 July 2017|date=18 December 2012|first=Ben|last=Hartman}}</ref>

Most individuals who are licensed to possess handguns may carry them loaded in public, concealed or openly.<ref name=Israel/>

In 2005, there were 237,000 private citizens and 154,000 security guards licensed to carry firearms. Another 34,000 Israelis own guns illegally due to their failure to renew their firearms license.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.ynetnews.com/articles/0,7340,L-3134459,00.html |title=Quarter of a million Israelis own firearms |publisher=Ynetnews.com |date=28 August 2005 |access-date=19 April 2014|first=Doron|last=Sheffer|newspaper=Ynetnews }}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.ynetnews.com/articles/0,7340,L-3762760,00.html |title=Number of gun applications doubles |newspaper=Ynetnews |publisher=Ynetnews.com |date=1995-06-20 |access-date=2014-04-19|last1=Levy |first1=Yael }}</ref> In 2007, there were estimated to be 500,000 licensed small arms held by civilians, in addition to 1,757,500 by the military, and 26,040 by the police.<ref>Karp, Aaron. 1 July 2006. "Trickle and Torrent: State stockpiles". Small Arms Survey 2006: Unfinished Business; Chapter 2 (Appendix I), p. 61. Oxford: Oxford University Press.</ref><ref>Karp, Aaron. 27 August 2007. "Completing the Count: Civilian firearms – Annexe online". Small Arms Survey 2007: Guns and the City; Chapter 2 (Annexe 4), p. 67 refers. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press.</ref>

==== 2023 Israel–Gaza war ====
Following the outbreak of the [[Gaza war]] on 7 October 2023, Israel almost immediately reacted strongly in favor of loosening gun restrictions in favor of a more liberal access for Israeli civilians to have firearms to defend themselves and their communities. The Israeli government also called on civilians that did find a way to arm themselves to band together and form protective groups in light of the attack initiated out of [[Gaza Strip|Gaza]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Erb |first=Jordan Parker |title=Israeli officials are calling on armed civilians to stand guard following Hamas attacks |url=https://www.businessinsider.com/israel-calls-on-armed-civilians-stand-guard-after-hamas-attack-2023-10 |access-date=2023-10-15 |website=Business Insider |language=en-US}}</ref> ''[[The Times of Israel]]'' reported, "The reform was unveiled by Public Security Minister [[Gilad Erdan]], who has pushed for allowing more Israelis to arm themselves as a response to terror attacks."<ref name=":4">{{Cite web |last=Bachner |first=Michael |title=Hundreds of thousands more Israelis okayed to carry guns under new rules |url=https://www.timesofisrael.com/hundreds-of-thousands-more-israelis-okayed-to-carry-guns-under-new-rules/ |access-date=2023-10-15 |website=The Times of Israel |date=20 August 2018 |language=en-US}}</ref> Left-wing party [[Meretz]] opposed the changes, with party member [[Tamar Zandberg]] saying in a statement, "...[guns] are a death machine whose civilian use needs to be reduced as much as possible...", Erdan in turn argued that, "Qualified citizens carrying firearms in public contribute to the sense of security, are an important line of defense from ‘[[Lone wolf attack|lone-wolf]]’ attacks and thus strengthen public security.", and "Many citizens have saved lives during terror attacks, and in the era of ‘lone-wolf’ attacks, the more qualified gun-carrying citizens there are — the better the chance to thwart terror attacks without casualties and reduce the number of casualties."<ref name=":4" />

National Security Minister [[Itamar Ben-Gvir]] was quoted in a report from [[Fox News]] as saying:<blockquote>When civilians have guns, they can defend themselves.<ref name=":5">{{Cite web |last=Halon |first=Yael |date=2023-10-11 |title=Israelis pressure government to loosen restrictive gun laws amid Hamas war: It's a 'pity' it came to this |url=https://www.foxnews.com/media/israelis-pressure-government-loosen-gun-laws-amid-hamas-war-pity-came |access-date=2023-10-15 |website=Fox News |language=en-US}}</ref></blockquote>Ben-Gvir issued an emergency directive after the attack to loosen gun restrictions for Israeli civilians in several ways, however, reportedly the comments section on the social media site [[Twitter|X]] (formerly Twitter) had many people saying that this was, "too little too late."<ref name=":5" />

American and international media outlets reacted largely critical of Israel's historically strict gun laws that potentially served to endanger Israelis by leaving them defenseless<ref>{{Cite web |last=Fung |first=Katherine |date=2023-10-09 |title=Israel festival-goers "defenseless" after gun ban |url=https://www.newsweek.com/israel-festival-goers-defenseless-after-gun-ban-1833082 |access-date=2023-10-15 |website=Newsweek |language=en}}</ref> in many cases as the surprise attack unfolded.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Tuccille |first=J. D. |date=2023-10-13 |title=Israel eases guns restrictions amidst security failures |url=https://reason.com/2023/10/13/israel-eases-guns-restrictions-amidst-security-failures/ |access-date=2023-10-15 |website=Reason.com |language=en-US}}</ref> Only 2% of Israeli civilians were armed prior to the attack according to a report from the [[BBC]], compared to as little as 30% of American civilians (though that number may be much higher due to gunowners that do not report accurately).<ref>{{Cite news |date=2023-03-30 |title=Israeli gun ownership rising as violence surges |language=en-GB |work=[[BBC News]] |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-middle-east-65110881 |access-date=2023-10-15}}</ref>

A [[rabbi]] in Israel named Raz Blizovsky was quoted as saying:<blockquote>People are changing their opinion [after the attack], and now there is more awareness. I have been involved with groups that have been talking about this issue [loosening gun restrictions for civilians] for years. During calm times, people don't do anything.<ref name=":5" /></blockquote>Israel citizens also petitioned their government by the tens of thousands<ref name=":5" /> to further loosen gun laws for Israeli and Jewish civilians in light of the prior laws that made it very difficult to acquire guns and possess the means for Israeli civilians to defend themselves.<ref name=":5" /> One petition gathered as many as 22,000 signatures in less than 24 hours seeking to loosen restrictions on Israeli civilians buying and carrying firearms.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Fiske |first=Gavriel |title=As Hamas war rages, personal firearm activists see surge in interest |url=https://www.timesofisrael.com/as-hamas-war-rages-personal-firearm-activists-see-surge-in-interest/ |access-date=2023-10-15 |website=The Times of Israel |date=9 October 2023 |language=en-US}}</ref><ref name=":5" />

===Japan===
{{see also|Haitōrei Edict|Firearm and Sword Possession Control Law}}
The weapons law of [[Japan]] begins by stating "No one shall possess a firearm or firearms or a sword or swords", and very few exceptions are allowed.<ref name="isbn0-415-17086-9">"Law Controlling Possession, Etc. of Fire-Arms and Swords" (1978), Law No 6, Art 3, EHS Law Bulletin Series, No 3920.</ref>
Citizens are permitted to possess firearms for hunting and sport shooting, but only after submitting to a lengthy licensing procedure.<ref>D Bayley, ''Forces of Order: Police Behavior in Japan and the United States'' (Berkeley: University of California Press, 1976), Art 4, 23.</ref> As part of the procedure, a shooting-range test must be passed with a "mark of at least 95%".<ref name="BBC Japan">{{cite news |last1=Low |first1=Harry |title=How Japan has almost eradicated gun crime |work=[[BBC News]] |date=6 January 2017 |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/magazine-38365729 |access-date=13 October 2019}}</ref> A mental-health evaluation taking place at a hospital, and a thorough background check where one's family and friends are interviewed, are also part of the procedure.<ref name="BI Japan" />

A gun license expires after three years, after which license tests must be repeated.<ref name= harryLow /> After ten years of shotgun ownership, a license-holder may apply to obtain a rifle.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Umeda|first=Sayuri|title=Firearms-Control Legislation and Policy: Japan {{!}} Law Library of Congress|url=https://www.loc.gov/law/help/firearms-control/japan.php|access-date=2021-02-08|website=www.loc.gov}}</ref>

Japan has been described as the country with "perhaps the first ever gun buyback initiative" in 1685, and is the first nation to have imposed gun laws in the world;<ref name="BI Japan">{{cite web |last1=Weller |first1=Chris |title=Japan has almost completely eliminated gun deaths – here's how |url=https://www.businessinsider.com/gun-control-how-japan-has-almost-completely-eliminated-gun-deaths-2017-10?r=US&IR=T |website=Business Insider |date=7 November 2017 |access-date=13 October 2019 |archive-date=30 January 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190130063419/https://www.businessinsider.com.au/gun-control-how-japan-has-almost-completely-eliminated-gun-deaths-2017-10?r=US&IR=T |url-status=live }}</ref> as such, gun ownership is very rare: 0.6 guns per 100 people in 2007. When mass killings occur, they are often perpetrated by assailants wielding knives or other means,<ref name="NPR">{{cite news |last1=Kennedy |first1=Merrit |title=Suspected Arson At Anime Studio In Japan Kills At Least 33 People|url=https://www.npr.org/2019/07/18/742981029/japanese-anime-studio-hit-with-suspected-arson-killing-at-least-16 |website=NPR |date=18 July 2019}}</ref> not guns. In 2014, Japan saw six gun deaths.<ref name="BBC Japan" />

Each prefecture in the country can operate a total of three gun shops. New cartridges can only be purchased after turning in expended cartridges.<ref name= harryLow /> In turn, new magazines can be bought only by trading in old ones. If a gun owner dies, their relatives must surrender their firearms.<ref name= harryLow >{{Cite news|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/magazine-38365729|title=How Japan has almost eradicated gun crime|work=[[BBC News]]|date=6 January 2017}}</ref> Police officers are expected to be proficient in [[judo]] to subdue suspects without firearms;<ref name= harryLow /> police are often armed, but rarely fire their weapons in the course of duty<ref name= associatedPressAbe>{{Cite news|url=https://apnews.com/article/shinzo-abe-shooting-japan-gun-control-0ab2e5afccf89fe71b8d594e4a4ad1cc|title=Japan's tight gun laws add to shock over Abe's assassination|work=[[Associated Press]]|date=8 July 2022}}</ref> and are not allowed to carry weapons when off-duty.<ref name="BI Japan" />

===Jordan===
According to Jordanian law on gun control passed in 1952 Jordanian residents are allowed to keep rifles and handguns at their home with amount of ammunition necessary for self-defense provided they obtain a permit. Permits are denied for people under 21 and convicted of any crimes. Possession and carrying of automatic firearms require special permit.

In 2019 a law was proposed that would ban both semi- and fully-automatic firearms in Jordan.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://themedialine.org/by-region/jordan-pushes-bill-to-limit-purchases-of-firearms/|title=Jordan Pushes Bill to Limit Firearm Ownership|work=The Media Line |date=3 July 2019}}</ref>

===Kuwait===
{{main|Gun law in Kuwait}}

Firearms may be licensed to a citizen (or foreigner recommended by the Minister of Interior) who is at least 25 years old and fully capable of handling a weapon, with no criminal record, who is not a suspect or under police surveillance, and who has a source of income. Hunting shotguns are the most commonly licensed weapons. Rifles chambered for .22 long rifle are also common, with hunting rifles being more difficult to obtain. Handguns are only allowed for VIPs. Machine guns are not legally permitted for civilian possession.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Guns in Kuwait – Firearms, gun law and gun control|url=https://www.gunpolicy.org/firearms/region/kuwait|access-date=2021-01-11|website=www.gunpolicy.org|archive-date=20 January 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210120085601/https://www.gunpolicy.org/firearms/region/kuwait|url-status=dead}}</ref>

===Lebanon===
In the Lebanese Republic, ownership of any firearm other than handguns, hunting arms or antiques is illegal and only the latter two are permitted to leave the owner's home. Disregard for this law is prevalent. Lebanon does not officially grant the right to bear arms, but it is a firmly held cultural belief in the country. Firearm licenses are granted to certain individuals, but the test is not open to the public and requires a particular need to be demonstrated.<ref name="gunpolicy7">{{cite web |url=http://www.gunpolicy.org/firearms/region/lebanon |title=Guns in Lebanon – Firearms, gun law and gun control |website=Gunpolicy.org |date=2001-07-21 |access-date=2016-01-29 |archive-date=5 February 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160205171105/http://www.gunpolicy.org/firearms/region/lebanon |url-status=dead }}</ref>

Gun control has been largely unsuccessful in Lebanon due to a historic context of gun availability and usage, a lack of effective central government control or authority over many parts of the country, and the tumultuous nature of the region. Although gunsmithing was once prominent in the region, it has all but ceased since the mid-1930s, yet it remains legal with a permit. Lebanon has come to be one of the largest arms markets in the Middle East.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XxumsOQMxLE | archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211211/XxumsOQMxLE| archive-date=2021-12-11 | url-status=live|title=Lebanon's Illegal Arms Dealers |publisher=YouTube |date=2014-02-24 |access-date=2016-01-29}}{{cbignore}}</ref>

Lebanon ranks 58th worldwide for privately owned firearms per capita.<ref name="gunpolicy7" />

===Malaysia===
Firearm ownership is highly restricted in Malaysia. The Arms Act (1960)<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://mides.mod.gov.my/phocadownloadpap/PDF/pekeliling/arms_act_1960_until_2006.pdf|title=Arms Act 1960|website=Malaysia Ministry of Defense Website|access-date=14 June 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170203122028/http://mides.mod.gov.my/phocadownloadpap/PDF/pekeliling/arms_act_1960_until_2006.pdf|archive-date=3 February 2017|url-status=dead}}</ref> requires Malaysian citizens to have a license for the manufacture, import, export, repair, or ownership of firearms. A firearm license can only be granted by the Chief Police Officer of a [[States and federal territories of Malaysia|state]]. Discharging a firearm in crimes such as extortion, robbery, resisting arrest and house-breaking is punished by the [[Capital punishment in Malaysia|death penalty]]. Exhibiting a firearm for any of the scheduled offences (without discharging) carries a penalty of life imprisonment and [[Caning in Malaysia|caning]] of not less than six strokes. Possession of unlawful firearms carries a sentence of up to fourteen years in prison and caning.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://poskod.my/street-notes/what-you-need-to-know-about-malaysias-gun-laws/|title=What you need to know about Malaysia's gun laws|date=2013-08-20|website=Poskod Malaysia|language=en-US|access-date=2016-06-14|archive-date=12 June 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160612153507/http://poskod.my/street-notes/what-you-need-to-know-about-malaysias-gun-laws|url-status=dead}}</ref>

===Mongolia===
Mongolia currently observes a law on firearms passed in 2001 which allows anyone to apply for a firearm license, which may be issued after 21 days.

There are 46,982 (or 1.6 per 100 people) registered firearms in Mongolia including 44,306 for hunting, 1,598 for security and ward use, 619 for sports training, 260 as "art" firearms and 199 for collection purposes.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Oyundari |first1=E |title=Law on firearms to be amended |url=http://ubpost.mongolnews.mn/?p=7146 |website=The UB Post |access-date=13 October 2019 |archive-date=24 January 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210124172032/http://ubpost.mongolnews.mn/?p=7146 |url-status=dead }}</ref>

===Myanmar===
The right to firearm ownership, which is primarily governed by the Weapons Act of 1878, is generally restricted in Myanmar.<ref name=":2">{{Cite web |last=Htoon |first=Kyaw Lin |date=2018-08-02 |title=Firearms and the law in Myanmar |url=https://www.frontiermyanmar.net/en/firearms-and-the-law-in-myanmar/ |access-date=2023-03-16 |website=Frontier Myanmar |language=en-US}}</ref> The law has been amended several times, and generally provides citizens with a right to own firearms for self-defence.<ref name=":2" /> Since the [[1962 Burmese coup d'état]], successive military regimes have restricted legal gun ownership to individuals closely connected with the regimes, including army veterans.<ref name=":2" /> After the 1962 coup, the government confiscated all citizen-owned firearms, which were re-distributed to [[Burma Socialist Programme Party]] members, retired civil servants, and army veterans.<ref name=":2" />

After the [[2021 Myanmar coup d'état]] and ensuing [[Myanmar civil war (2021–present)]], the military regime has revisited existing gun laws as part of an effort to combat pro-democracy forces. On 31 January 2023, the [[Ministry of Home Affairs (Myanmar)|Ministry of Home Affairs]] issued a directive enabling organisations and citizens deemed "loyal to the state," including civilians, civil servants, and army personnel, to obtain firearm licences and permits.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Aung Zay |date=2023-02-17 |title=Hundreds apply for firearms licenses days after introduction of new policy |url=https://myanmar-now.org/en/news/hundreds-apply-for-firearms-licenses-days-after-introduction-of-new-policy |access-date=2023-03-16 |website=Myanmar NOW |language=en}}</ref><ref name=":3">{{Cite web |last=Tin Htet Paing |date=2023-02-13 |title=Myanmar regime issues right to arms policy enabling easier weapons access for pro-junta individuals and militias |url=https://myanmar-now.org/en/news/myanmar-regime-issues-right-to-arms-policy-enabling-easier-weapons-access-for-pro-junta |access-date=2023-03-16 |website=Myanmar NOW |language=en}}</ref> The directive stipulates that firearm applicants must be at least 18 years old, and must demonstrate a need for firearms for "personal security."<ref name=":3" /> The regulatory shift has enabled the military junta to arm pro-regime paramilitary groups like the [[Pyusawhti militias]] and to suppress pro-democracy forces in the country, in light of waning military recruitment and their challenges in concurrently operating in multiple [[Theater (warfare)|war theatres]] throughout the country.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Leaked document confirms Myanmar junta is arming anti-resistance militias |url=https://myanmar-now.org/en/news/leaked-document-confirms-myanmar-junta-is-arming-anti-resistance-militias |access-date=2023-03-16 |website=Myanmar NOW |language=en}}</ref><ref name=":2" />

===Nepal===
Nepal allows firearm ownership if an applicant can provide sufficient reason, for example hunting or self-defense.

There are 34,315 (or 0.1 per 100 people) registered firearms in Nepal including 13,892 shotguns, 312 pistols and 118 revolvers.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://myrepublica.nagariknetwork.com/news/over-34-000-licensed-firearms-possessed-by-public/|title=Over 34,000 licensed firearms possessed by public|date=25 March 2017|publisher=MyRepublica}}</ref>

===North Korea===
According to 2009 law civilian possession of firearms is prohibited in North Korea.<ref name="YONHAP">{{cite web|last=Oh |first=Grace |url=https://en.yna.co.kr/view/AEN20120806002600315 |title= N. Korea enacts rules on regulating firearms |work=Yonhap News Agency |date=6 August 2012 |publisher=[[Yonhap News Agency]] |access-date=9 August 2013}}</ref>

===Pakistan===
{{Main|Gun law in Pakistan}}

Pakistan has permissive firearm laws compared to the rest of South Asia, and has the sixth-highest number of privately owned guns in the world. Laws regulate the carrying of weapons in public in most urban areas. Private guns are prohibited in educational institutions, hostels, boarding and lodging houses, fairs, gatherings or processions of a political, religious, ceremonial, or sectarian character, and on the premises of courts of law or public offices.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://punjablaws.gov.pk/laws/190.html |title=The Punjab Arms Ordinance 1965 |publisher=Punjablaws.gov.pk |access-date=2015-01-28}}</ref> The law in Pakistan does not stipulate whether gun licenses should be denied or revoked, and a license permits ownership of any number of weapons including handguns of any size and fully automatic weapons. Firearms are a traditionally important part of rural life in its North-Western areas where it is not uncommon to see people legally carrying [[Rocket-propelled grenade|RPGs]] and fully automatic weapons.{{citation needed|date=October 2019}}

===Philippines===
{{Main|Gun law in the Philippines}}

Current gun laws in the Philippines are outlined in Republic Act 10591 or the "Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act", signed in 2013. In order to own a firearm, a citizen must acquire a License to Own and Possess Firearms (LTOPF). Applicants must meet the following requirements: (a) has not been convicted of any crime involving moral turpitude; (b) has passed the psychiatric test administered by a PNP-accredited psychologist or psychiatrist; (c) has passed the drug test conducted by an accredited and authorized drug testing laboratory or clinic; (d) has passed a gun safety seminar which is administered by the PNP or a registered and authorized gun club; (e) has filed in writing the application to possess a registered firearm which shall state the personal circumstances of the applicant; (f) must present a police clearance from the city or municipality police office; and (g) has not been convicted or is currently an accused in a pending criminal case before any court of law for a crime that is punishable with a penalty of more than two (2) years.<ref name="officialgazette.gov.ph">{{cite web| url = https://www.officialgazette.gov.ph/2013/05/29/republic-act-no-10591/| title = Republic Act No. 10591 {{!}} Official Gazette of the Republic of the Philippines| work = Official Gazette of the Republic of the Philippines| date = 29 May 2013}}</ref>

License holders may carry concealed handguns in public with the acquisition of a separate Permit to Carry Firearms Outside of Residence (PTCFOR), which is granted on a may-issue basis.<ref>{{cite web|last=Calica |first=Aurea |url=http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2013/06/02/949166/new-law-gets-strict-gun-ownership |title=New law gets strict on gun ownership &#124; Headlines, News, The Philippine Star |publisher=philstar.com |date=2013-06-02 |access-date=2015-02-18}}</ref> Generally, applicants must demonstrate an imminent threat of danger and secure a Threat Assessment Certificate from the police in order to be issued a PTCFOR. Exempted from this requirement are members of the national bar (lawyers, prosecutors, judges), accountants, accredited media practitioners, cashiers, bank tellers, clergymen (priests, ministers, rabbis, imams), physicians, nurses, engineers, high-risk businessmen, elected incumbent and former officials, and active and retired military and law enforcement personnel, as they are deemed to be in imminent danger due to the nature of their profession, occupation or business.<ref name="officialgazette.gov.ph" />

Many Filipinos own firearms for self-protection and target-shooting, which require licenses: around 2,000,000 people out of 100,000,000 have a registered firearm.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.gunpolicy.org/fr/firearms/compareyears/146/number_of_registered_firearms|title=Philippines – Number of Registered Firearms|website=www.gunpolicy.org|access-date=7 March 2020|archive-date=8 March 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210308002047/https://www.gunpolicy.org/fr/firearms/compareyears/146/number_of_registered_firearms|url-status=dead}}</ref>

===Singapore===
Singaporean citizens must obtain a license to lawfully possess firearms or ammunition; applicants must provide justification for the license, which is often restricted to the military, police, and [[private security companies]]. Target-shooting licenses permit ownership of a gun, provided it is securely stored in an approved and protected firing range, and is not taken out of the firing range without special permission. Self-defense permits are not allowed, unless there is an 'imminent threat' to their lives that can be justified to the government. There is no restriction on types of small arms one may own after obtaining a license. Illegal firearms and firearm-related crimes are grounds for the [[death penalty in Singapore]].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.gunpolicy.org/firearms/region/singapore |title=Small Arms in Singapore: Facts, Figures and Firearm Law |publisher=Gunpolicy.org |access-date=14 November 2011 |archive-date=30 April 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150430045149/http://www.gunpolicy.org/firearms/region/singapore |url-status=dead }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://statutes.agc.gov.sg/aol/search/display/view.w3p;page=0;query=DocId%3A%227659a792-18f3-43d8-a6ac-463e3ff2453a%22%20Status%3Ainforce%20Depth%3A0;rec=0#pr3-he- |title=Singapore Statutes Arms Of– fences Act |publisher=Statutes.agc.gov.sg |access-date=2014-04-19 |archive-date=29 March 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140329031931/http://statutes.agc.gov.sg/aol/search/display/view.w3p;page=0;query=DocId%3A%227659a792-18f3-43d8-a6ac-463e3ff2453a%22%20Status%3Ainforce%20Depth%3A0;rec=0#pr3-he- |url-status=dead }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://statutes.agc.gov.sg/aol/search/display/view.w3p;page=0;query=DocId%3A%227659a792-18f3-43d8-a6ac-463e3ff2453a%22%20Status%3Ainforce%20Depth%3A0;rec=0 |title=Singapore Statutes Online Arms – Offences Act |publisher=Statutes.agc.gov.sg |access-date=2014-04-19 |archive-date=29 March 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140329031931/http://statutes.agc.gov.sg/aol/search/display/view.w3p;page=0;query=DocId%3A%227659a792-18f3-43d8-a6ac-463e3ff2453a%22%20Status%3Ainforce%20Depth%3A0;rec=0 |url-status=dead }}</ref>

Owing to its mandatory [[National service in Singapore|national service]], nearly half the civilian population have the experience and are well-trained in operating firearms, most notably the [[M16 rifle|M16]] and the [[SAR 21]].<ref name="Fact">{{cite web |url=http://www.mindef.gov.sg/imindef/news_and_events/nr/1999/sep/11sep99_nr/11sep99_fs.html |title=Factsheet - Singapore Assault Rifle 21 |publisher=[[Ministry of Defence (Singapore)|Singaporean Ministry of Defence (MINDEF)]] |access-date=24 July 2010 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20121225092029/http://www.mindef.gov.sg/imindef/news_and_events/nr/1999/sep/11sep99_nr/11sep99_fs.html |archive-date=25 December 2012 |url-status=live }}</ref>

===South Korea===
Similar to Singapore, the majority of South Korean men are well-trained in the use of firearms, due to [[military draft|mandatory military service]].<ref name="ABC News" /> Guns are also notably absent in South Korean society outside of the military, and gun ownership and gun-related deaths rank among the lowest in the world.<ref name="Korea Times US may learn from Korea's gun control">{{cite news|last=Na|first=Jeong Ju|url=https://www.koreatimes.co.kr/www/news/nation/2013/01/116_129474.html|newspaper=[[The Korea Times]] |access-date=23 July 2015|title=Korea Times US may learn from Korea's gun control}}</ref><ref name="WBEZ Examining South Korea's shockingly low rates of gun ownership">{{cite web|url=http://www.wbez.org/episode-segments/2011-08-02/examining-south-korea%E2%80%99s-shockingly-low-rates-gun-ownership-89983|publisher=WBEZ|access-date=23 July 2015|title=WBEZ Examining South Korea's shockingly low rates of gun ownership|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151205171036/http://www.wbez.org/episode-segments/2011-08-02/examining-south-korea%E2%80%99s-shockingly-low-rates-gun-ownership-89983|archive-date=5 December 2015|url-status=dead}}</ref>

South Korea has strict gun policies. Hunting and sporting licenses are issued, but any firearm used in these circumstances must be stored at a local police station. Air rifles also have to be stored at police stations; crossbows and electric shock devices are also classified as firearms but their private retention is permitted. Tasers are prohibited, and possessing a toy gun without an orange tip is strictly prohibited. Violation of firearms laws can result in a US$18,000 fine and up to 10 years in prison.<ref name="ABC News">{{cite web |last=Cho |first=Johee |url=https://abcnews.go.com/blogs/headlines/2012/12/strict-gun-control-laws-in-south-korea/ |title=Strict Gun Control Laws in South Korea |publisher=ABC |access-date=9 August 2013 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121219170236/https://abcnews.go.com/blogs/headlines/2012/12/strict-gun-control-laws-in-south-korea/ |archive-date=19 December 2012}}</ref>

===Syria===
According to 2001 law Syrian citizens and foreign Arabs can own one revolver and two shotguns under license issued for people who can provide genuine reason such as protection of business.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.gunpolicy.org/firearms/region/syria|title=Syria — Gun Facts, Figures and the Law|website=Gunpolicy.org|quote=Guiding gun control legislation in Syria includes the... Legislative Decree No. 51 of 23 September 2001|access-date=14 June 2023|archive-date=15 June 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230615210714/https://www.gunpolicy.org/firearms/region/syria|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://stj-sy.org/en/syria-questions-about-the-capacity-of-act-14-to-control-the-spread-of-arms-among-legalized-armed-militias/|title=Syria: Questions About the Capacity of Act 14 to Control the Spread of Arms Among "Legalized Armed Militias"|date=27 April 2022|publisher=Syrians for Truth and Justice|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221202131015/https://stj-sy.org/en/syria-questions-about-the-capacity-of-act-14-to-control-the-spread-of-arms-among-legalized-armed-militias/|archive-date=2 December 2022|quote=On 15 February 2022, Faisal Jammoul, a Syrian delegate, member of the National Security Committee, and the Syrian Parliament’s Constitutional Committee, gave a live interview on “Al Madina FM” about upcoming amendments to Syrian Arms and Ammunitions Law. During the interview, Jammoul confirmed that a draft of the law had been discussed in detail and would soon be proposed to the Syrian Parliament. He said: “The proposed amendment to the Arms and Ammunitions Law is in fact an amendment to Law No. 51of 2001 and is an urgent response to mitigate the chaotic spread of arms around Syria.”}}</ref>

====Idlib====
All types of firearms including pistols, rifles and grenades are reportedly sold in rebel-held Idlib district without any license in shops which are mostly run by militia groups.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://npasyria.com/en/48265/|title=Indiscriminate proliferation of weapons in Syria's Idlib widespread|date=15 October 2020}}</ref> In October 2020 Idlib's Salvation Government reportedly stated it will start licensing firearms.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.thereference-paris.com/13771|date=18 October 2020|title=Jawlani courts the West with decision to control carrying of weapons in Idlib|access-date=16 November 2020|archive-date=29 October 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201029163600/https://www.thereference-paris.com/13771|url-status=dead}}</ref> Many other rebel groups expressed opposition to this and some doubted possibility of registering firearms in Idlib.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.syria.tv/حكومة-الإنقاذ-تبدأ-بترخيص-السلاح-الفردي-الغايات-والإمكانيات|title="حكومة الإنقاذ" تبدأ بترخيص السلاح الفردي.. الغايات والإمكانيات|language=ar|date=20 October 2020}}</ref>

===Taiwan===
[[Taiwan]] has extremely strict gun control for all persons on the island, though some carveouts used to be made for indigenous Taiwanese persons. Some argue that the strict policy endangers the homeland to potential invasion by mainland China.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-01-14 |title=Mainland China's grip on Taiwan's arsenal seen in 'incredible' security blunder |url=https://www.scmp.com/news/china/military/article/3206779/mainland-chinas-grip-taiwans-arsenal-revealed-incredible-security-blunder |access-date=2023-08-14 |website=South China Morning Post |language=en}}</ref> An unusual feature of Taiwan's gun control scheme was a specific provision for indigenous people, allowing black powder [[muzzleloader]]-type single shot rifles for hunting, though in the pursuit of a total gun control policy, even indigenous persons of Taiwan have lost their right to use and own even these guns as of 2021.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2021-05-07 |title=Taiwan's indigenous groups lose court fight for hunting rights |language=en-GB |work=[[BBC News]] |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-57023554 |access-date=2023-08-14 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230814183922/https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-57023554 |archive-date=14 August 2023 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Controlling Guns, Ammunition and Knives Act |url=https://law.moj.gov.tw/ENG/LawClass/LawAll.aspx?pcode=D0080047 |access-date=31 July 2020}}</ref> There is an absolute "zero tolerance policy" for owning guns in Taiwan. The indigenous people that were allowed a carve out to the absolute-no-guns policy though are increasingly antagonistic against the mainly [[Han Chinese]] that are seen as foreign occupiers that restrict the natural right of indigenous peoples of Taiwan to own and use guns for hunting and other purposes.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Winn |first=Patrick |url=https://theworld.org/media/2021-05-18/taiwan-s-gun-control-debate|title=Taiwan's gun control debate|publisher=[[The World (radio program)|The World]]|date=18 May 2021}}</ref>

===Thailand===
A firearm license in [[Thailand]] is only granted for the following uses: self-defense, property protection, hunting, or sporting.<ref name="TLF">{{cite web|last1=Chaninat & Leeds|title=Gun Law of Thailand|url=http://www.thailawforum.com/database1/thailand-gun-law.html|website=Thailand Law Forum|access-date=20 February 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230705220628/http://www.thailawforum.com/database1/thailand-gun-law.html|archive-date= 5 July 2023}}</ref><ref name="DW-20160219">{{cite news|last1=Domínguez|first1=Gabriel|title=A look at Thailand's fervent gun culture|url=http://dw.com/p/1HyYz|access-date=20 February 2016|work=Deutsche Welle|agency=Deutsche Welle|date=2016-02-19|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230615210719/https://www.dw.com/en/a-look-at-thailands-fervent-gun-culture/a-19060721|archive-date=15 June 2023}}</ref> Applicants for a firearms license must be at least 20 years of age (the age of majority under the Civil and Commercial Code), have a record of good behavior, have an occupation and receive income, and have a permanent address in Thailand with a name "listed in the house registration specifically in the area where you are applying for a license, for at least six months". A license may not be issued to anyone who is a repeat criminal offender or mentally unstable. The application fee for most firearms licenses is 1,000 Baht for each license or unit; a license for possession and use of air rifles is 200 Baht per license/unit.; carry licenses are also 1,000 Baht per license. Since October 2017 citizenship is required to purchase and use firearms.<ref name="loc.gov">{{Cite web|url=https://www.loc.gov/law/foreign-news/article/thailand-amendments-to-firearms-law/|title=Thailand: Amendments to Firearms Law &#124; Global Legal Monitor|date=23 October 2017|website=www.loc.gov}}</ref> A person is also not allowed to carry his gun without an additional permit for concealed carry.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.vertic.org/media/National%20Legislation/Thailand/TH_Firearms_Ammunition_Act.pdf |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131213013607/http://www.vertic.org/media/National%20Legislation/Thailand/TH_Firearms_Ammunition_Act.pdf |archive-date=2013-12-13 |url-status=live |title=Firearms, Ammunition, Explosives, Fireworks, and the Equivalent of Firearms Act B.E.2490 (1947), page 1 of 22 |publisher=Vertic.org |access-date=18 February 2015}}</ref> Fully automatic firearms and explosive devices are prohibited.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Alpers|first1=Philip|last2=Wilson|first2=Marcus|title=Thailand – Gun Facts, Figures and the Law|url=http://www.gunpolicy.org/firearms/region/thailand|website=GunPolicy.org|publisher=Sydney School of Public Health, The University of Sydney|access-date=20 February 2016|date=2016|archive-date=4 March 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304195139/http://www.gunpolicy.org/firearms/region/thailand|url-status=dead}}</ref>

The amended 2017 law will cover weapon suppressors, electric darts, and new types of fireworks including ''bang fai'' (locally-made rockets) and ''talai'' ("rocket-like fireworks with a circular wing"). The amendment further provides that anyone who creates a bomb scare may be subject to convictions of up to three years of imprisonment and/or fined up to 60,000 Baht. Another significant change is that only Thais will be permitted to register a gun with the authorities. Formerly, foreigners residing in Thailand could also apply for weapons permits. The Act already prohibits the manufacture, purchase, ownership, use, ordering, or import of firearms or ammunition, except by persons who have been granted a license from the local registrar. Violation of this provision is punishable with convictions including imprisonment for a period of between one and ten years and/or fines of between 2,000 and 20,000 Baht.<ref name="loc.gov" />

===Timor-Leste===
{{more citations needed section|date=January 2015}}
Under [[East Timor]]ese law, only the military and police forces may possess, carry and use firearms, with few exceptions.<ref>[https://www.gunpolicy.org/firearms/region/timor-leste Timor-Leste — Gun Facts, Figures and the Law] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231226200404/https://www.gunpolicy.org/firearms/region/timor-leste |date=26 December 2023 }}  Alpers, Philip and Marcus Wilson. 2022. Timor-Leste — Gun Facts, Figures and the Law. Sydney School of Public Health, The University of Sydney. GunPolicy.org, 7 December. Accessed 26 December 2023.</ref>

In late June 2008, the [[Prime Minister of Timor-Leste|Prime Minister]], [[Xanana Gusmão]], introduced a proposed gun law to Parliament for "urgent debate", pushing back scheduled budgetary discussions. The new law, which would allow civilians to own guns, sparked heated debates in the East Timorese parliament. The [[United Nations]], which has a peacekeeping force deployed in the nation, also expressed concerns over the new law. The law was defeated in the Parliament.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.easttimorlawandjusticebulletin.com/2008/06/new-gun-laws-in-east-timor-defeated-in.html|title=New gun laws in East Timor defeated in Parliament|date=27 June 2008}}</ref>

===Turkey===
[[Turkey]] is semi-restrictive in terms of gun control statutes.<ref name="gun.policy.org.turkey">{{cite web |url=http://www.gunpolicy.org/firearms/region/turkey |title=Guns in Turkey |publisher=gunpolicy.org |access-date=2016-06-29 |archive-date=2 July 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160702123543/http://www.gunpolicy.org/firearms/region/turkey |url-status=dead }}</ref> Civilians in Turkey need to get a license from the police or gendarmerie to own and use firearms, and these licenses last for 5 years. Licenses are available for shotguns (including semi-automatic ones), rifles (bolt-action, lever-action, and some semi-automatics), and handguns. To get a license, you must:
	•	Be at least 21 years old,
	•	Be a Turkish citizen or permanent resident,
	•	Have a valid medical report signed by a group of doctors,
	•	Have no criminal record or unpaid taxes, and
	•	Pay the required fees.

As of 2024, fully automatic and short-barreled shotguns are banned. There are no restrictions on magazine size, caliber, or optics for handguns. Some semi-automatic rifles can be owned with a rifle permit, but they are uncommon in the market. Semi-auto rifles typically come in .22LR or 9mm calibers with magazines holding up to 15 rounds. Fully automatic rifles are not allowed for civilians, with very rare exceptions.

Shotgun licenses automatically include a permit to carry or transport the shotgun, but it must be unloaded and covered. Handgun concealed carry permits and rifle carry licenses are harder to get and require a valid reason, like personal protection or hunting. Applicants must show proof of this reason, such as a life threat (approved by the governor) or belonging to specific professions like:
	•	Company board members/directors (with certain criteria),
	•	Jewelers, gas station operators, or bank managers,
	•	Lawyers, commercial pilots, or ship captains,
	•	Herders, shooting range operators, or foreign exchange bureau owners,
	•	Notaries, contractors/developers, or people working with explosives,
	•	Beekeepers, licensed journalists, or rural landowners.

Getting a handgun concealed carry permit is expensive, and each firearm requires a separate carry license. Handgun carry licenses are legally unlimited, but obtaining multiple permits is rare. Rifles can only be carried with a hunting license and for hunting purposes; hunting with semi-automatic rifles is not allowed. Carry licenses usually need renewal every 5 years.

High-powered and tactical semi-automatic rifles are mostly banned for civilians, with very few exceptions. Spare parts for these weapons, especially barrels, are hard to find and replace.<ref>[https://www.mevzuat.gov.tr/MevzuatMetin/1.3.6136.pdf ATEŞLİ SİLAHLAR VE BIÇAKLAR İLE DİĞER ALETLER HAKKINDA KANUN] 10 July 1952</ref> 

In Turkey, most shooting ranges are indoors and only allow handguns. People with possession licenses need to get a transportation permit from the local police for each trip to the range. However, those with concealed carry licenses do not need such permits.

Shotguns and rifles (for carry license holders) can be used for target shooting outside urban and residential areas. This must be done at least 500 meters away from homes and only with the landowner’s permission. To hunt with shotguns or rifles, a hunting license is required.

Licensed armed security personnel, such as those protecting valuable assets, VIPs, critical infrastructure, airports, banks, or high-risk events, can carry semi-automatic and fully automatic weapons, including submachine guns, but only while on duty.

In rural areas, over 50,000 civilians are authorized as “Security Guards” or “Village Guards” to protect against terrorists and looters. This role allows them to carry selective-fire firearms for this specific purpose. These weapons and equipment are usually provided by the military and remain government property.

Public servants, including police officers, military personnel, judges, public prosecutors, and senior politicians, have a lifelong right to apply for free handgun and rifle carry licenses. These licenses are issued on a guaranteed basis.<ref>[https://www.husanarms.com/en/haberler/silah-ruhsati-nasil-alinir/ How to Get a Gun License in Turkey] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231226211157/https://www.husanarms.com/en/haberler/silah-ruhsati-nasil-alinir/ |date=26 December 2023 }} 26 February 2023. Husan Arms.</ref><ref>[https://www.gunpolicy.org/firearms/region/turkey Turkey — Gun Facts, Figures and the Law] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230713081846/https://www.gunpolicy.org/firearms/region/turkey |date=13 July 2023 }} Alpers, Philip and Marcus Wilson. 2022. Turkey — Gun Facts, Figures and the Law. Sydney School of Public Health, The University of Sydney. GunPolicy.org, 12 December. Accessed 26 December 2023.</ref> 
All police officers can carry an unlimited number of handguns and rifles with a carry license. Military officers are allowed up to five handguns and two rifles, while generals are not limited by these rules. Mayors, deputies, ministers, and presidents automatically receive lifetime carry licenses without paying any fees. Some other government employees, such as forest rangers, village headmen, customs officers, judges, and prosecutors, also have lifetime carry licenses. Unlike civilians, public servants (active or retired) do not need to renew their medical certificates every five years.

Turkey has a large shotgun industry, and shotguns are widely available and easy to purchase. Getting a shotgun license is simpler and cheaper compared to handgun or rifle licenses. It requires a clean bill of health, a clear criminal record, and no outstanding tax debt. One shotgun license allows ownership of up to five shotguns. Spare parts are widely available, and rebarreling is both easy and legal.<ref>[https://www.mevzuat.gov.tr/File/GeneratePdf?mevzuatNo=10666&mevzuatTur=KurumVeKurulusYonetmeligi&mevzuatTertip=5 SAYILI AVDA VE SPORDA KULLANILAN TÜFEKLER, NİŞAN TABANCALARI VE AV BIÇAKLARININ YAPIMI, ALIMI, SATIMI VE BULUNDURULMASINA DAİR KANUNUN UYGULANMASINA İLİŞKİN YÖNETMELİK]</ref>  Shotguns are much more affordable due to open market conditions and competition among numerous national and international brands, unlike rifles and handguns, which are sold exclusively through the government-controlled monopoly, [[MKEK]].

=== United Arab Emirates ===
In 2019, the government of the United Arab Emirates relaxed its gun laws. The minimum age to possess firearms was lowered from 25 to 21, while legal owners can now have up to three guns. People from other countries are not allowed to apply for licenses. Most popular purposes to own them include hunting and [[trap shooting]].

Weapons can be purchased during a yearly gun show called Adihex. In 2018, more than 1,764 legal weapons were sold.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.thenationalnews.com/uae/heritage/uae-gun-rule-changes-boost-sales-at-abu-dhabi-s-adihex-1.904046|title=UAE gun rule changes boost sales at Abu Dhabi's Adihex|date=29 August 2019|website=The National}}</ref>

Firearm licenses are issued after 60 days of applications to the relevant authority. If there is no response that means that the license has been rejected.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.thenationalnews.com/uae/courts/abu-dhabi-shooting-rare-gun-incident-puts-spotlight-on-strict-licensing-laws-1.809198|title=Abu Dhabi shooting: rare gun incident puts spotlight on strict licensing laws|date=3 January 2019|website=The National}}</ref>

=== Uzbekistan ===
In 2019, the president of Uzbekistan signed a new gun law. It allows citizens to own smooth-bore firearms and firearms with rifled barrels for hunting and sport shooting purposes. Carrying in public places is prohibited and the minimum age is 21 years. Only gas and electric weapons can be used for self-defense purposes. The maximum magazine capacity is ten rounds.<ref name="uzbekistan" />

=== Vietnam ===
Firearms in [[Vietnam]] are restricted to the military and law enforcement agencies, with possession of firearms prohibited to civilians.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://thuvienphapluat.vn/van-ban/Linh-vuc-khac/Luat-Quan-ly-su-dung-vu-khi-vat-lieu-no-cong-cu-ho-tro-2017-320097.aspx|title=Luật Quản lý sử dụng vũ khí vật liệu nổ công cụ hỗ trợ 2017|last=thuvienphapluat.vn|website=thuvienphapluat.vn|access-date=2018-05-29}}</ref> The chief exception to this is for hunting and sporting purposes, requiring users to undergo mandatory background checks to be licensed.

=== Yemen ===
{{Main|Gun law in Yemen}}

Yemen has a permissive gun policy and does not require permits for firearm ownership. The 1992 Law "On Regulating Carrying Firearms and Ammunitions and Their Trade", established the right to own firearms (rifles, machine guns, revolvers and hunting rifles) for the purpose of legitimate defense. Licenses are required to carry firearms in cities, which are issued on a may-issue basis with varying restrictions depending on the city. Open and concealed carry is unrestricted in rural areas.<ref name="yemen" /> Since the breakout of the [[Yemeni Civil War (2015–present)|civil war]] in 2011 there has been barely any state gun control, and fully-automatic rifles/assault rifles, anti-tank guided missiles or armored vehicles are available over the counter for various militias and individuals willing to buy them.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://jamestown.org/program/yemen-dangerous-regional-arms-bazaar/|title=Yemen: A Dangerous Regional Arms Bazaar|newspaper=Jamestown |date=16 June 2017}}</ref>

According to the Small Arms Survey of 2018 titled ''Estimating Global Civilian-Held Firearms Numbers'', there are roughly 14.9 million civilian-held firearms in Yemen (52.8 firearms held per 100 residents), making Yemen the second most armed country in the world after the United States.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Karp|first=Aaron|date=June 2018|title=Estimating Global Civilian-Held Firearms Numbers|url=http://www.smallarmssurvey.org/fileadmin/docs/T-Briefing-Papers/SAS-BP-Civilian-Firearms-Numbers.pdf|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180620231909/http://www.smallarmssurvey.org/fileadmin/docs/T-Briefing-Papers/SAS-BP-Civilian-Firearms-Numbers.pdf|url-status=dead|archive-date=20 June 2018|access-date=23 June 2020|website=Small Arms Survey|publisher=[[Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (Australia)|Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade]]}}</ref>