Dozens dead, others missing in huge fire at Shopping mall in Iraq's Kut

A massive fire at a hypermarket in Kut city, eastern Iraq, has resulted in at least 60 deaths and several missing. Officials confirmed 59 identities but noted one body was too burned to identify. Many bodies remain trapped under debris. The Wasjit province governor, Mohammed al-Mayahi, reported the fire occurred while families were dining and shopping. Firefighters managed to rescue several individuals and extinguish the flames.

Three days of mourning have been declared, with an investigation expected to conclude within 48 hours. Governor al-Mayahi stated, “A tragedy and a calamity have befallen us.” Legal action against the building owner has begun.