Iraq holds nationwide mourning in wake of mall blaze killing 61

Iraq holds nationwide mourning in wake of mall blaze killing 61
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Following the deadly fire at the Hypermarket Mall in al-Kut, eastern Iraq, which claimed 61 lives and left many missing, Iraqi and Kurdish leaders have expressed deep condolences and called for swift action, Rudaw reported. Kurdistan Region President Nechirvan Barzani and Prime Minister Masrour Barzani offered sympathy and assured medical support for the injured. Grand Ayatullah Shirazi and Grand Ayatollah Ali al-Sistani extended heartfelt condolences to victims’ families, while President Abdul Latif Rashid urged an immediate investigation and accountability for negligence.

Wasit Governor Muhammad Jamil al-Miahi declared three days of mourning and announced lawsuits against mall owners and responsible parties. Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ al-Sudani sent the interior minister to oversee a thorough inquiry, with Interior Minister Abdul Amir al-Shammari forming a high-level committee to ensure transparency and responsibility.

The incident highlights ongoing safety challenges in Iraq, where poor enforcement of regulations, aging infrastructure, and overcrowding increase fire risks, especially during extreme summer heat. Regional and international figures have also expressed solidarity with the victims and their families.