A wedding is traditionally a celebration of love and unity, a day filled with joy and cherished memories. However, for Revan, 27, and Haneen, 18, their nuptial ceremony on September 26, 2023, in Iraq’s Nineveh province, turned into an unimaginable tragedy. A devastating fire erupted during their wedding reception, resulting in the deaths of over 100 guests and leaving more than 150 injured. In the aftermath, the couple has expressed profound grief, stating they feel “dead inside.”
The Catastrophic Event
The incident occurred at a popular wedding hall in Qaraqosh, near Mosul, where approximately 900 guests had gathered to celebrate the union of Revan and Haneen. Eyewitnesses reported that the fire ignited around 10:45 p.m. local time, shortly after the couple’s first dance. Initial accounts suggested that indoor fireworks used during the dance may have sparked the blaze. One injured guest recalled, “[The bride and groom] were about to do a slow dance and then they lit up this thing for the dance which caught fire.”
However, Revan provided a different perspective, indicating that the fire originated from the ceiling. He recounted, “It could be a short-circuit, I don’t know. But the fire started in the ceiling. We felt the heat… When I heard the crackling, I looked at the ceiling. Then the ceiling, which was all nylon, started to melt. It only took seconds.”
Immediate Aftermath and Rescue Efforts
As the fire rapidly consumed the hall, panic ensued among the attendees. Revan described the chaotic scene, emphasizing the challenges he faced in ensuring Haneen’s safety: “I grabbed my wife, and I began to drag her. I kept dragging her and trying to get her out of the kitchen entrance. As people were fleeing, people were trampling on her. Her legs are injured.”
The construction materials of the hall significantly contributed to the fire’s swift spread. Authorities noted that the building’s exterior was adorned with highly flammable cladding, which is prohibited in the country. This factor, combined with the presence of a single, non-functional fire extinguisher, exacerbated the disaster.
Personal Losses and Emotional Toll
The magnitude of personal loss for the couple is staggering. Haneen lost ten family members, including her mother and brother, while her father remains in critical condition. Revan mourns the loss of 15 relatives, including his mother. The overwhelming grief has left them emotionally numb. Revan expressed, “It’s true that we’re sitting here in front of you alive. But inside we are dead. We are numb. We are dead inside.”
Community Impact and Response
The tragedy has deeply affected the local community, predominantly composed of Christians. The loss of over 100 lives has prompted nationwide mourning and calls for accountability. Iraq’s Prime Minister, Mohammed Shia’ al-Sudani, directed federal authorities to mobilize relief efforts for the victims and their families. Health Ministry spokesman Saif al-Badr stated, “All efforts are being made to provide relief to those affected by the unfortunate accident.”
Investigation and Safety Concerns
Investigations into the cause of the fire are ongoing. While initial reports pointed to pyrotechnics as the trigger, Revan’s account suggests the possibility of an electrical short-circuit. The use of highly flammable materials in the hall’s construction has raised significant safety concerns. Civil defense officials highlighted that the building’s exterior cladding was illegal, contributing to the rapid spread of the fire. This incident underscores the urgent need for stringent enforcement of building safety regulations to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
Decision to Relocate
In light of the profound trauma and loss, Revan and Haneen have decided to leave their hometown. Revan articulated their reasoning: “That’s it, we can’t live here anymore. We can’t live here anymore. I mean, every time we try to have some happiness, something tragic happens to us and destroys the happiness. So, it’s best for us to leave.”
Conclusion
The devastating fire at Revan and Haneen’s wedding serves as a somber reminder of the fragility of life and the unforeseen tragedies that can alter its course. As they navigate the immense grief and loss, their story highlights the critical importance of safety regulations and the profound impact such events have on individuals and communities. The collective mourning and support from their community and nation underscore the shared human experience of compassion in the face of unimaginable sorrow.
