site of a fatal fire in the district of Hamdaniya in Mosul,
A wedding inferno in Iraq, seemingly triggered by fireworks used during a celebration of a Christian wedding, engulfed a crowded hall in northern Iraq. The tragic incident claimed the lives of at least 100 individuals, with 150 others sustaining injuries. Authorities have cautioned that the death toll may potentially increase.
According to authorities, the use of flammable building materials played a significant role in the recent tragedy that befell Iraq’s diminishing Christian minority. The incident occurred in the Hamdaniya area of Nineveh province, which is largely populated by Christians and situated just outside the city of Mosul, approximately 335 kilometers (205 miles) northwest of Baghdad. This unfortunate event underscores the importance of adhering to proper construction standards and safety measures, particularly in areas with vulnerable communities.
Many of the individuals injured in the devastating fire that occurred during a wedding celebration in Hamdaniya, Nineveh province, are in critical condition, with the least severe case sustaining burns on 40 percent of their body.Ahmed Dubardani, the deputy head of the Nineveh health directorate, stated, “The least severe injury reported to us had burns covering 40 percent of their body, and we transferred them to Hamdaniya hospital. No one has been discharged from the hospital as of now.”It is distressing to hear about the severity of the injuries sustained, and our thoughts are with the victims and their families during this difficult time.
According to eyewitnesses, a large gathering of people, numbering in the hundreds, were joyfully celebrating when the building suddenly became engulfed in flames at approximately 10:45 local time (19:45 GMT) on Tuesday.Imad Yohana, a 34-year-old who managed to escape the inferno, recounted, “We witnessed the fire blazing, emerging from the hall. Some individuals were able to evacuate, but unfortunately, others became trapped. Even those who escaped were left shattered by the horrifying ordeal.”The firsthand accounts paint a harrowing picture of the tragic incident, highlighting the urgent need for improved safety measures during such events.
Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani has issued a directive, ordering a thorough investigation into the fire incident. His office released a statement online, stating that the country’s Interior and Health officials have been tasked with providing assistance and relief to those affected. Additionally, Masrour Barzani, the Prime Minister of Kurdistan, has instructed hospitals in the region to extend their support and aid to individuals injured in the tragic blaze. It is reassuring to see swift action being taken at the highest levels to investigate the incident and ensure that those affected receive the necessary help and care.
Hamdaniya, situated on Iraq’s Nineveh Plains, falls under the administration of the central government of Iraq. However, due to its proximity, it is also claimed by the semi-autonomous Kurdish Regional Government. The population of Hamdaniya primarily consists of Chaldean Christians, who form the majority of its residents.
