Baghdad: More than 100 people were killed and 150 people were seriously injured in fire at a wedding ceremony in Iraq. The incident took place in Hamdania, Iraq around 11 o’clock last night (Sep 26). Preliminary findings suggest that the fire may have originated from firecrackers burst during the wedding celebrations.
The exact count of casualties and injuries is yet to be confirmed. An Iraqi health spokesperson stated that the death toll is expected to rise, and the injured have been transferred to hospitals in the Nineveh region. The Ministry of Health has assured that all necessary assistance will be provided to those affected by the disaster.
Reports indicate that the bride and groom, who were present in the hall, also sustained serious injuries, although authorities have not officially confirmed this. Disturbingly, the auditorium lacked safety precautions, and Iraqi civil defense officials revealed that the fire spread rapidly due to highly flammable Ecobond panels. Officials further noted that the ceiling, constructed with cheap materials, collapsed when the fire broke out.
In response to the incident, Iraq Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ Al Sudani has directed his cabinet to provide assistance to the affected people, according to a statement from his office.
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