A devastating fire has erupted in an Iraqi shopping mall, leaving at least fifty people dead. Authorities fear the death toll could rise further. The incident was reported on Thursday, July 17, by the news agency Al Arabiya.
The governor of the region confirmed that at least fifty individuals lost their lives in the fire. The French news agency AFP also verified this information. However, the exact location of the fire within Iraq remains unclear, as official sources have yet to specify where the incident occurred. Social media posts and videos suggest that the blaze took place at a supermarket in the town of Al-Qut.
Viral footage shows a large building engulfed in flames, with thick black smoke billowing into the sky. Local authorities are currently investigating the cause of the fire. Experts warn that the death toll could increase as rescue and recovery efforts continue. According to a separate report by Al Jazeera, the fire at a hypermarket in eastern Iraq’s Al-Qut has resulted in at least fifty deaths and many injuries, citing the province’s governor and the state news agency INA.
Videos circulating on social media depict a five-story building burning overnight, with firefighters attempting to bring the flames under control. The cause of the fire is yet to be determined, but the governor has said that initial investigation results will be announced within 48 hours. Citing the governor, INA reported, “We have filed cases against the building and mall owners.”
It is important to note that fires in Iraq have occurred before, often linked to safety lapses and building code violations. Following this incident, concerns have resurfaced about safety measures at public venues and shopping centers across the country.
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