UN conveys condolences to families of Baghdede wedding fire victims, Iraqi Society for Human Rights calls for accountability

BAGHDEDE, Iraq — In the aftermath of the devastating wedding hall fire that claimed over 100 Chaldean–Syriac–Assyrian lives in Baghdede (Qaraqosh / Hamdaniya), Iraq, Stéphane Dujarric, the Spokesperson for the United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres, expressed the heartfelt condolences of the UN to the grieving families. Dujarric conveyed the sympathies of the Secretary-General, emphasizing the UN’s readiness to provide comprehensive assistance to those affected by the tragic event.

“Secretary-General Guterres extends his condolences to the families of the victims,” noted Dujarric, underlining the UN’s commitment to aiding the injured in every possible way. He stressed the importance of safeguarding minorities in Iraq, urging the government to fulfill its responsibility in protecting these vulnerable communities.

The US-based Iraqi Society for Human Rights also extended condolences to the victims and their families, placing responsibility squarely on the competent regulatory authorities responsible for granting licenses for the Al-Haytham Wedding Hall despite its lack of safety considerations. The association called for stringent legal measures against those deemed responsible for the catastrophic fire, emphasizing the need for compensation for the victims and the injured.