According to local authorities, a devastating fire at a wedding in Iraq has claimed the lives of at least 100 individuals, leaving an additional 150 injured. The Iraqi state news agency INA reported the incident, highlighting that the catastrophe occurred in Al Haytham Wedding Hall, situated in the Hamdaniya district of northeast Nineveh governorate. The Iraqi Civil Defense has attributed the ignition of the fire to the utilization of fireworks, candles, and various other materials during the wedding festivities.
According to the governor of Nineveh, Najm Al-Jubouri, the injured individuals have been taken to hospitals in Nineveh and the Kurdistan region. Al-Jubouri stated that there is currently no confirmed number of fatalities or injuries.
Videos captured at the location depict dense smoke emanating from the structure as crowds and ambulances gather in its vicinity.
In response to the incident, Prime Minister Mohammed Shiaa Al-Sudani has directed his cabinet to provide aid and support to the individuals impacted by the fire, as stated in an official communication released by his office.
The Iraqi leader has contacted the governor of Nineveh by phone regarding the incident and instructed a complete mobilization to assist the victims, as reported by his office and INA.
Please note that this is a developing news story and will be continuously updated.