Blaze Engulfs Newly Opened Mall in Iraq, Over 60 Dead

A devastating fire at an Iraqi mall in Wasit province claimed over 60 lives. Most victims suffocated, while others remain unidentified. The mall had opened just a week prior. Investigations are underway, and legal actions have been initiated. The tragedy raises concerns over building standards in Iraq.

In a tragic incident in eastern Iraq, a fire engulfed a newly opened mall in Wasit province, claiming the lives of more than 60 individuals, including women and children.

The Interior Ministry confirmed 61 fatalities, with the majority dying from suffocation. Civil defense teams managed to rescue over 45 trapped individuals, but the death toll includes 14 charred bodies yet to be identified.

The fire's cause is under investigation, and legal actions have been initiated against the building's owner. Prime Minister Mohammad Shia al-Sudani has ordered measures to prevent similar occurrences, highlighting concerns over Iraq's building standards.

(With inputs from agencies.)