Deadly Fire Engulfs New Mall in Iraq, Dozens Dead and Missing

 

A deadly fire ripped through the Corniche Hypermarket Mall in the Iraqi city of Kut on Wednesday night, leaving at least 55 people dead and several more injured or missing. The blaze struck just five days after the mall’s grand opening and was reportedly sparked by an exploding air conditioner on the second floor.

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The fire quickly spread across the multi-storey building, trapping many shoppers and families inside. Videos circulated online showed intense flames and smoke, while firefighters battled the blaze and rescued some individuals stranded on the roof. Ambulances were seen rushing casualties to hospitals well into the early morning hours. Several bodies remain unidentified, and rescue efforts continue as of Thursday.

Medical and local authorities have described the incident as a “tragedy” and a “calamity,” with one grieving doctor revealing that he lost five family members during what was meant to be a simple family dinner at the mall.

Governor Mohammed al-Miyahi expressed deep sorrow and outrage over the fire, announcing that legal action will be taken against the mall’s owner. He confirmed that a formal investigation has begun and that initial findings on the cause of the blaze are expected within two days. He also promised a full safety review of public buildings across the region.

The regional government acknowledged that the mall may have lacked proper fire safety protocols. Survivors and witnesses described scenes of chaos and despair, with people desperately trying to flee the flames. Medical sources described over 50 victims as “martyrs,” and some bodies remain too damaged to identify.

The fire is being described as one of the deadliest recent public disasters in Iraq. The loss has shaken the community of Kut, which lies about 160 km southeast of Baghdad, and has sparked calls for urgent reform in construction and safety enforcement in commercial buildings across the country.

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