Massive fire engulfs historic Qaysari bazaar in Erbil

ERBIL — A massive fire broke out in Erbil’s historic Qaysari Bazaar, in one of the city’s oldest markets.

Sixteen civil defense teams are battling the uncontained blaze in Qaysari Bazaar, which has caused injuries. According to 964media, the fire has destroyed numerous shops. Witnesses suggest an electrical short circuit might have sparked the fire, though the cause remains undetermined.

The blaze started in a children’s clothing shop and a wholesale center before spreading to the adjacent gold market, making it difficult to control due to its intensity.

It is the latest of a spate of recent fires engulfing bazaars in Erbil.

Serkot Karash, general director of public relations for Erbil’s civil defense, told 964media the fire is extensive and still uncontained.

A 964media correspondent reported that one person was injured by a stray bullet during an exchange of gunfire between security forces in the area. Additionally, a substantial number of Zeravani and police forces have detained several individuals for theft at the scene.

Kurdistan Regional Government Deputy Prime Minister Qubad Talabani stated on X, formerly known as Twitter, “I spoke with Omed Khoshnaw, the governor of Erbil, and he assured me that the firefighting teams are exerting all efforts to control the fire at Erbil’s grand bazaar.

“We will continue to monitor the situation and commend the first responders for their bravery.”