27th September 2023 – (Baghdad) A devastating fire broke out at a wedding in the Al-Hamdaniya district of northern Iraq’s Nineveh province, resulting in the loss of at least 100 lives and leaving 150 individuals injured, as reported by state media.
Heartbreakingly, the bride and groom were among the victims, according to local media sources. The incident has plunged the community into mourning and shock.
The cause of the fire remains unclear, but initial reports suggest that it started after fireworks were ignited during the celebration. The flames quickly engulfed the event hall, leading to a chaotic and desperate situation.
Images shared by Iraqi news agency Nina depict courageous firefighters battling the blaze, while photographs from local journalists on social media reveal the charred remnants of the venue. Iraq’s civil defence directorate has indicated that flammable panels within the building may have contributed to the rapid spread of the fire, as reported by Nina.
Heart-wrenching footage captured by a Reuters correspondent at the scene shows firefighters diligently searching through the wreckage in hopes of finding survivors. The scale of the tragedy is evident as emergency responders navigate the ruins.
In response to the devastating incident, Iraqi authorities swiftly dispatched ambulances and medical teams to provide immediate aid to the victims. The government has expressed its commitment to supporting those affected by the tragedy.
The Prime Minister of Iraq has instructed officials to mobilise all available resources to provide relief and assistance to those impacted by the unfortunate incident. In a statement shared on X (formerly known as Twitter), his office conveyed the urgency of the situation and the need to extend support to those affected by this horrific event.