The United Arab Emirates expressed its heartfelt condolences and solidarity with the Republic of Iraq following a tragic fire that broke out in a shopping center in Al-Kut, resulting in numerous fatalities and injuries.
In an official statement, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs conveyed its sincere sympathies to the families of the victims, as well as to the Iraqi government and people during this difficult time, wishing a swift recovery to the injured.
According to health authorities in Al-Kut and two police sources, a massive blaze erupted in a shopping center in the city, claiming the lives of at least 69 individuals, with 11 others reported missing.
Footage from the aftermath of the overnight fire showed the charred exterior of the Corniche Hypermarket building, as rescue workers and security forces remained at the scene. Video clips depicted firefighters dousing the burning structure while individuals were seen being assisted from the roof by rescue teams.
Officials stated that many victims succumbed to smoke inhalation inside restrooms, with one individual reporting that five family members perished in an elevator. Reports indicated that the fire began on the ground floor before spreading throughout the Corniche Hypermarket, which is housed in a five-story building.
Witness accounts revealed that families, including mothers and children, had visited the center for shopping and dining shortly after its recent opening. Social media recordings captured individuals, including children, stranded on the roof, calling for help.
Ali Al-Miyahi, a local official from the Al-Kut municipality, mentioned that there are still bodies yet to be recovered from the fire debris. While the cause of the fire remains unknown, the Iraqi News Agency reported comments from Wassit Governor Mohammed Jameel Al-Miyahi, stating that relevant authorities are actively investigating the incident’s causes and will release preliminary findings to the public within 48 hours transparently. He added that local officials have initiated legal action against the building and mall owner concerning the incident.
In a related development, Iraqi President Abdul Latif Rashid and Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani emphasized the need to thoroughly investigate the fire’s origins. During a meeting between the two leaders, they expressed their condolences to the families affected by the unfortunate disaster in Al-Kut and assured them of full assistance while highlighting the importance of uncovering the incident’s causes and implementing necessary actions.