Iraq Fire News / Massive fire in Iraq's shopping mall, at least 50 people killed

Iraq Fire News: A massive fire has caused massive destruction in the eastern city of Kut in Iraq. A fire that broke out in a newly built shopping mall late Wednesday night engulfed the entire building, resulting in at least 50 deaths and dozens missing. The incident has created an atmosphere of panic and mourning across the region.

The horror of the fire

According to Iraqi state media, the fire spread so fast that it started from the first floor and reached all floors of the building in no time. Viral videos on social media show flames and smoke engulfing the entire building, while people nearby are forced to watch this orgy helplessly amid screams. The mall and its surrounding areas were immediately evacuated, and traffic was blocked.

Cause of fire

According to the Khaleej Times report, the fire started late Wednesday night, but its exact cause is not yet known. Wasit province governor Mohammed Al Miyahi said investigations were underway, and the local administration would take legal action against the mall's owner and management. Initial reports said the fire started from the first floor.

Relief and rescue operations

Firefighters and rescue teams rushed to the spot as soon as the fire was reported, but it was proving extremely difficult to control due to the intensity of the fire. By 4 am, ambulances were rushing the injured to local hospitals, leading to a shortage of beds in hospitals. A reporter said charred bodies were seen in hospitals, reflecting the magnitude of the tragedy.

The mall was opened to the public just five days ago

The mall was opened to the public just five days ago. There was a lot of excitement among the locals about this new shopping center, but this happiness turned into mourning within a few hours. Governor Miyahi has declared three days of mourning in the entire province, calling the incident "tragic".

Reaction of the local administration

Governor Mohammed al-Miyahi told the state news agency INA, "The number of people killed and injured in this tragic incident has reached about 50. We are investigating the causes of this tragedy and strict action will be taken against the culprits." The administration has said that legal action will be taken against the owner and operators of the mall.

Atmosphere of panic among the people

This fire incident has created an atmosphere of fear and uncertainty among the residents of Kut city. Dozens of people are still missing, and their relatives are wandering in search of their loved ones outside hospitals and the scene. Relief and rescue operations are still underway, but the magnitude of the fire has complicated rescue efforts.

BREAKING: 🔴

At least fifty people have been killed after a large fire broke out at shopping mall in the city of Kut in eastern Iraq, the governor reported. pic.twitter.com/pdsLD3JcVZ

— Open Source Intel (@Osint613) July 17, 2025

At least 50 people have been killed and dozens remain missing after a fire broke out early Thursday morning at a shopping mall in Iraq’s eastern Wasit province, according to Iraqi state media.

READ MORE: https://t.co/oF0hGwnXzO pic.twitter.com/MoAdr0CXqR

— Rudaw English (@RudawEnglish) July 17, 2025