A devastating fire at a hypermarket in Iraq’s Wasit province has killed around 50 people, prompting a three-day mourning period in the region. The fire broke out Wednesday evening at the Corniche Hypermarket in central Kut while families were shopping and dining.

Wasit Governor Mohammed Jamil Al-Mayahi confirmed the tragedy and expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives, which included men, women, and children. “This is a devastating tragedy for the people of Kut and all of Wasit,” he said in a statement to the Iraqi News Agency (INA).

Governor Al-Mayahi announced legal action against the owners of the building and mall, promising that preliminary investigation findings would be made public within 48 hours. “We will not show leniency toward those directly or indirectly responsible for this incident,” he asserted.

Authorities have not yet determined the cause of the fire. The death toll could rise further as search operations continue for missing persons.

Civil defence units were fully mobilised to battle the massive blaze, and rescue teams worked overnight to reach individuals trapped on the upper floors of the five-story building. Governor Al-Mayahi personally oversaw the emergency response on-site.

Videos circulating on social media showed intense flames engulfing the structure, with firefighters using cranes and hoses to bring the fire under control.

The Wasit Governorate office reported that some victims were successfully rescued from higher floors. Local officials and residents alike are mourning the tragic loss as the nation awaits further updates on the investigation.

The incident has sparked outrage and renewed calls for stricter fire safety standards in commercial buildings across Iraq.