The Iraqi government has launched a sweeping crackdown on unsafe businesses after a tragic fire in Kut claimed nearly 70 lives. This initiative began on July 19, just two days after the incident, and aims to enforce safety regulations nationwide.
The Interior Ministry announced immediate action during a press briefing in Karbala. Officials stressed the importance of full accountability, especially with the Arbaeen pilgrimage approaching. The ministry vowed to bring every violator to justice, regardless of status.
Authorities have already identified initial suspects. While investigations continue, they have started inspecting commercial facilities across the country. As a result, security forces shut down many retail outlets that lacked permits or failed fire safety checks.
Moreover, the Federal Integrity Commission arrested six individuals connected to the Kut fire. These included officers and employees from the Civil Defence Directorate and Kut municipality. Officials highlighted violations in safety protocols at the hypermarket where the fire started.
In Baghdad, enforcement teams closed over 1,300 businesses for breaking fire codes. They also banned the use of flammable sandwich panels, which had helped the fire spread quickly. Civil Defence teams began inspecting government offices as part of their broader response.
Additionally, Iraq signed an agreement with South Korea to acquire firefighting and emergency aircraft. Officials explained that recent equipment upgrades have significantly boosted emergency response capacity.
In northern cities like Mosul and Kirkuk, authorities escalated efforts. In Mosul, they shut down more than 20 commercial and public sites over safety violations. Many lacked emergency exits or relied on flammable construction materials.
A committee under the Nineveh governor carried out these inspections. Members stressed the urgency of preventing future disasters and improving public safety. In Kirkuk, inspectors closed 12 buildings after removing unsafe materials like sandwich panels and Alucobond.
The Interior Ministry continues targeting unsafe businesses. These efforts protect lives and help ensure all public spaces meet strict safety standards. As inspections expand, authorities will keep unsafe businesses under close watch to prevent more tragedies.
