Al-Kut, Iraq, July 17, 2025 — A devastating fire ripped through a five-storey hypermarket in the eastern Iraqi city of al-Kut late Wednesday night, killing at least 60 people and leaving 11 others missing, local health officials confirmed on Thursday.
Dramatic footage shared online showed the building engulfed in flames as emergency responders fought through the night to douse the blaze. Reuters reported the accounts from two police sources and the city’s health department, though the videos circulating on social media could not be independently verified.
“We have compiled a list of 59 victims whose identities have been confirmed,” a city health official told Reuters. “But one body was so badly burned that it has been extremely difficult to identify.”
Recovery efforts are still underway, with several bodies believed to be trapped under the charred remains of the building. “We have more bodies that have not been recovered still under fire debris,” said city official Ali al-Mayahi.
The cause of the fire remains unclear. However, the governor of the province has promised answers soon. According to Iraq’s state news agency (INA), an initial investigation report is expected within 48 hours.
“We have filed lawsuits against the owner of the building and the mall,” the governor said, pointing to possible negligence or safety violations.
The tragedy has shocked the nation and raised concerns over fire safety standards in commercial buildings. As grieving families await answers, authorities are under mounting pressure to ensure accountability and prevent such disasters in the future.
Dozens Killed in Iraq Hypermarket Blaze, Several Still Missing as Probe Begins
