"Authorities in Berlin have bolstered security measures around the Brandenburg Gate for the New Year's Eve celebrations, following several foiled attacks on Christmas markets in recent years. Footage from Tuesday shows security barriers being installed around and on the Brandenburg Gate with concrete blocks placed at square. Pedestrians passed through security installations while tourists were taking pictures. "Actually, it gives me a sense of safety that things look calm and normal here right now," Vivian, a local resident, said. "On the other hand, it's of course unsettling that tomorrow it will look so different. But overall, it reassures me that there isn't much hustle and bustle here yet." Tourists visiting the city also commented on the measures. Ritishai Thapsawan from Bangkok referenced past incidents, sharing 'very strong hopes' on the tight security measures amid the celebration. "For such an open event in an open space like that, security is important. It's in the open air; it's not like in a concert hall where everything can be controlled." Aurora from Canada viewed the situation with optimism, adding she 'wouldn't want to live life in fear'. "I mean, it's New Year's, right?," she said. "I would take heed of warnings and advice, but I think it's so important to come together and celebrate, celebrate when you can and how you can." Angela, a tourist from Lisbon visiting with her family, supported light hearted sentiment, saying: "I'm a positive person, although I'm realistic. I think it's going to be fine. I don't predict anything; otherwise, I wouldn't come. Yeah, I think it will be okay." Weeks ago, German authorities arrested five men suspected of involvement in a plot to drive a vehicle into people at a Christmas market. Berlin officials have outlined an operational plan for New Year's Eve, including the closure of the Brandenburg Gate underground station, restrictions on items allowed into the celebration area, expanded bans on private fireworks, and increased policing across the city. Tightened security measures come after tragic events happening on December 19, 2016, when an Islamist attacker plowed through a crowd of Christmas market visitors at Berlin's Gedachtniskirche church with a truck, killing 13 people and injuring dozens more. Later in 2024, six people died as a result of another car-ramming attack on a market in the city of Magdeburg just a few days before Christmas."