**At least 60 dead in Iraq mall fire**

In a devastating tragedy, a massive fire at a newly opened mall in eastern Iraq has claimed the lives of at least 60 people, including women and children. The inferno erupted late Wednesday in Wasit Province, leaving behind a scene of chaos and heartbreak as rescuers worked tirelessly to save those trapped inside.

Local officials confirmed that the majority of the victims succumbed to suffocation, with 14 charred bodies still unidentified. Eyewitnesses described harrowing scenes outside the mall, where families gathered in anguish, fearing for their loved ones. Civil defense teams managed to rescue over 45 individuals from the flames, but many remain unaccounted for as the search continues.

The mall, which had opened just a week prior, housed a restaurant and supermarket within its five-story structure. As the smoke clears, a three-day mourning period has been declared in the area, reflecting the profound loss felt by the community. Investigations into the cause of the fire are underway, with legal actions being initiated against the building’s owner amid concerns over poor construction standards that have plagued Iraq in recent years.

The Iraqi Prime Minister has ordered an immediate investigation, dispatching the interior minister to the site to ensure accountability and prevent future tragedies. This incident echoes previous disasters in the country, including a deadly hospital blaze in 2021 and a wedding hall fire in 2023, both attributed to substandard building materials.

As the nation grapples with this latest catastrophe, the urgency for reform in safety regulations has never been clearer. The world watches closely as Iraq confronts the aftermath of this horrific event, with hopes for swift justice and a commitment to safeguarding lives in the future.