(Adnkronos) – Italy has sent condolences to Iraq over a massive fire at a new shopping centre in the eastern city of Kut on Thursday that killed at least 61 people, triggering an investigation into the cause of the blaze.
“The Embassy of Italy is deeply saddened by the tragic loss of life caused by the devastating fire in Kut, Wasit Governorate,” the embassy wrote Friday on X.
“We extend our heartfelt condolences to the @IraqiGovt and to the families of the victims, and wish a speedy recovery to all those who were injured,” the post added.
Civil defence crews were able to rescue 45 people from the burning mall, which opened a week ago.
Officials blamed lack of safety standards in the five-storey building for the tragedy in which most of the victims were reportedly trapped on upper floors.
