13 Jul 2021 | 12:24 AM UTC
Iraq: Lingering disruptions, increased security, and protests likely following major fire at Al-Hussein Hospital in Nasiriyah, late July 12 /update 1
Residual disruptions and increased security likely following hospital fire in Nasiriyah, Iraq, late July 12. Demonstrations possible.
Event
Lingering disruptions and increased security are likely following a major fire that broke out at Al-Hussein Hospital in Nasiriyah, Dhi Qar Governorate, late July 12. Although responders had contained the blaze by the early hours of July 13, at least 50 people have been killed and more than 60 others injured in the incident. Official casualty figures may continue to rise in the coming days. Conflicting reports indicate that the fire was either caused by an oxygen cylinder explosion or an electric short circuit; no further details have been provided. The hospital was primarily dedicated to COVID-19 patients. Iraqi Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhimi has called for an immediate investigation and declared a state of emergency in Dhi Qar Governorate until further notice.
Given that this is the second mass-casualty hospital fire to take place in Iraq in less than three months, public anger over the incident could manifest in street protests and calls for accountability over the coming days. Security forces will likely deploy to government buildings in Nasiriyah, Baghdad, and other locations where demonstrations could potentially take place. Clashes cannot be ruled out during any such gatherings that may materialize.
Context
A similar fire took place at Baghdad's Ibn al-Khatib Hospital during the night of April 24-25; that blaze left 82 people dead and over 100 injured. Authorities also attributed it to oxygen tank explosions resulting from negligent storage practices. While then-Health Minister Hassan al-Tamimi ultimately resigned in the wake of the disaster, the public backlash following a second such incident could be significantly stronger.
Advice
Avoid the vicinity of the hospital in the coming days to minimize the potential for disruptions; allow additional time if traveling in the neighborhood. Avoid all announced or proposed protest actions due to the potential for violence. Exercise caution near likely protest locations. Monitor local media for protest activity, as organizers may not announce plans in advance. Confirm the availability of transport and allow additional time to reach destinations. Plan for increased security and localized transport disruptions near demonstrations. Follow all police instructions.
