28 Jul Najaf Hotel Fire in Iraq
Dozens of people have been injured following a fire in a six-storey hotel in the city of Najar in central Iraq which took place on July 26th.
According to Iraqi news outlets, 72 individuals suffered from various effects of smoke inhalation and three suffered from burns.
Evacuation procedures effectively saved hundreds of lives, with firefighting crews and support teams mobilising to rescue people and extinguish the flames. Medical teams were the first to arrive on the scene, immediately giving aid to those who were injured.
Authorities have not yet given the area the all-clear – heightened security is present and localized business and transport have been heavily disrupted.
Eye irritation and smoke have also been spotted coming from the hotel, with individuals being recommended to stay away from the scene whilst the aftermath of the blaze is brought under control.
The cause of the fire is yet to be determined, however, a full investigation has been ordered by the Civil Defence Directorate.
Those caught in the hotel are moved to appropriate medical facilities and given appropriate care. Fire Middle East will continue to monitor the situation.