NASIRIYAH — 2021 · Major Tragedy
Al-Hussein Hospital Fire, Nasiriyah
On the night of 12 July 2021, a fire broke out in a Covid-19 isolation ward set up in the grounds of Al-Hussein Teaching Hospital in Nasiriyah, southern Iraq. The ward, built from prefabricated materials, was quickly engulfed. Officials said the fire was linked to an electrical fault and exploding oxygen cylinders. At least 60 people were reported dead, and some local officials said the toll exceeded 90. It came only three months after a similar fire at Ibn al-Khatib Hospital in Baghdad killed more than 80 people, and deepened anger over safety failures in Iraq's health system. The prime minister ordered an investigation and the detention of health officials.
- Date
- 2021
- Place
- Dhi Qar, Iraq, Nasiriyah, IQ
- Category
- Major Tragedy
- Case Status
- Closed
- Coordinates
- 31.0500, 46.2600 ↗
Timeline of Events
- 24 April 2021A similar fire had struck Ibn al-Khatib Hospital in Baghdad.
- 12 July 2021Fire broke out in the Covid ward in Nasiriyah.
- 13 July 2021The toll was reported above 90 and an inquiry opened.
Sources
- BBC News — Iraq hospital fire bbc.com ↗
- Al Jazeera — Death toll rises to 92 in fire at Iraq COVID ward aljazeera.com ↗
- The Guardian — Dozens die after fire in Covid isolation ward theguardian.com ↗
- BBC News
- Al Jazeera
- The Guardian
Source grade A: several independent sources, at least one an official record or reference work. If you spot a mistake or something missing, report it with "Suggest a correction" in the app.
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🕯️ This record was prepared with respect, in memory of those who lost their lives.