A massive fire broke out Wednesday at a large shopping center in the city of Al-Kut, eastern Iraq, claiming dozens of lives.

According to a statement issued by Iraq’s Ministry of Interior Thursday morning, at least 61 people—men, women, and children—died in the blaze at the five-story Corniche Hypermarket. Dozens were rescued from the burning building.

The Interior Ministry reported, “This tragic fire claimed the lives of 61 innocent citizens, most of whom suffocated in the restrooms due to thick smoke.” They described it as a “highly distressing incident” that shocked the Iraqi public conscience, noting that 14 bodies remain unidentified.

? As flames engulfed the building, groups of people gathered on its rooftop while firefighters battled the blaze. Footage released by regional authorities showed emergency responders aiding people through small windows.

Despite the severity of the situation, the Interior Ministry said, “Civil defense teams bravely managed to rescue more than 45 people trapped inside the building, demonstrating remarkable dedication and courage.” The hypermarket, which includes a restaurant and supermarket, had only been open for seven days.

? Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia' Al-Sudani ordered a fully equipped medical team to support rescue efforts and instructed the Minister of Interior to launch an immediate investigation into the cause of the fire, according to a statement from his office.

He expressed heartfelt condolences to the victims' families and wished them patience and solace. Meanwhile, Interior Minister Abdul-Amir Al-Shammari confirmed the formation of a high-level investigative committee “to identify all sources of negligence and responsibility” and emphasized that any party found to be at fault “will be held accountable.”

? Wasit Governor Mohammed Jamil Al-Mayahy announced three days of mourning for the victims in the province. On Facebook, he promised to release preliminary investigation findings within 48 hours and revealed that a lawsuit was filed against the building’s owner.

He also disclosed that the mall’s owner did not possess valid construction or investment permits and that the owner’s son died in the fire. Final investigation results are expected to be announced within one week.

The governor stressed, “We will not settle for dismissing negligent individuals; we will hold them legally accountable.”