No casualties reported

Iraq’s civil defense contains major warehouse fire in Baghdad

BAGHDAD — Iraq’s Civil Defense forces successfully contained a large fire that broke out Sunday afternoon on Zilal Street in Baghdad, according to a statement from the Ministry of Interior. Ministry spokesperson Miqdad Miri confirmed that civil defense teams managed to bring the blaze under control.

Miri noted that around 60 firefighting vehicles and heavy machinery were deployed to extinguish the fire, containing it and preventing further spread. He also confirmed that no casualties were reported. The cause of the fire has yet to be determined.

The fire began at approximately 1:30 p.m. in a large warehouse storing refrigerant gas cylinders, electrical appliances, and decorative materials. Significant damage was reported at the facility, though authorities have yet to assess the full extent of the losses.

In mid-August 2023, the Civil Defense Directorate announced that Iraq had recorded 19,000 fires since the beginning of the year. The number of fires has decreased by 20% compared to 2022, with officials attributing the decline to increased public awareness of safety measures and the adoption of modern construction methods that reduce fire risks.