Fire at wedding in northern Iraq leaves 114 dead and multiple injured
A devastating fire at a wedding in Iraq resulted in numerous casualties. Preliminary reports suggest fireworks caused the tragedy.
2023-09-28T17:24:48+00:00
- Fire at Wedding in Iraq
- Fireworks Cause Disaster
- Over 100 Dead in Accident
In a shocking tragedy, a devastating fire erupted during a Christian wedding celebration.
The incident seems to have been sparked by fireworks used in the religious ceremony, occurring in the northern region of Iraq.
These fireworks led to the complete destruction of the wedding hall, resulting in a significant number of casualties.
Preliminary reports from local authorities suggest the death toll may rise.
Tragedy occurs during wedding in Iraq
As of this report, around 114 people have been confirmed dead as a result of the fire.
In addition to the fatalities, local authorities confirmed that another 150 were injured due to the intense flames, as noted by AP.
The tragic fire took place in the city of Hamdaniya, located specifically in the Nineveh province of northern Iraq.
This predominantly Christian region lies on the outskirts of Mosul, approximately 335 kilometers northwest of Baghdad.
Intense flames are present
Authorities indicated that the presence of flammable materials played a significant role in the disaster, further affecting the country’s Christian community.
Amid the chaos of the incident, varying numbers of casualties were reported; security forces detained employees for questioning as part of the ongoing investigation.
The fire erupted on the night of Tuesday, September 26, in the Hamdaniya region of Nineveh province.
Footage aired by local media captured the flames engulfing the wedding hall.
Fire leaves at least 150 injured
The scene that unfolded after the fire was heartbreaking. Survivors rushed to hospitals seeking urgent medical attention.
This while their families anxiously waited in hallways and outside the facilities.
According to The Associated Press, the Nineveh public health department confirmed a death toll of 114.
Meanwhile, Health Ministry spokesman Saif al-Badr reported that at least 150 people were injured.
The disaster in Hamdaniya in northern Iraq
The government is mobilizing all available resources to provide assistance and support to the victims and their families.
Several witnesses, including Faten Youssef, 50, a guest at the wedding, said the fire began when the newlyweds started their dance.
The flames spread through the plastic decorations, and the ceiling began to collapse, according to statements from attendees.
«Flames started falling on us,» Youssef told The Associated Press. «Objects were falling and blocking the exits,» he added.
Impact of the fire
According to information provided by AP, it was initially unclear if the bride and groom were among the victims.
Ambulance sirens wailed for hours after the fire as paramedics transported the injured.
Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani ordered a thorough investigation into the causes of the fire.
Furthermore, he urged Interior and Health officials to provide all necessary assistance to those affected.
Investigation of the accident in progress
The international community has expressed condolences and offered humanitarian aid in this hour of need.
While an official cause for the fire has not been confirmed, preliminary reports suggest that fireworks played a significant role.
This tragic event underscores the importance of exercising caution when using fireworks.
The Associated Press noted that the people of Iraq are in mourning as they grapple with the enormity of this loss. HERE THE IMAGES.


