Overview

• At least 61 people died in the blaze, most from smoke inhalation, with many victims found in bathroom areas.
• Civil defense teams rescued more than 45 people who were trapped inside the five-story Corniche Hypermarket Mall.
• Investigators are examining the mall’s fire safety protocols and maintenance records as they probe the fire’s cause.
• Provincial authorities have declared three days of mourning to honor the victims of the tragedy.
• Similar deadly fires in 2021 and 2023 highlighted persistent deficiencies in Iraq’s building regulations and emergency preparedness.