Iraq declares 3 days of mourning for fire victims (Photo: AFP/VNA)

A raging fire appears to have been caused by fireworks set off to celebrate the wedding.  Most of the injured were being treated for burns, oxygen deprivation, and crush injuries.

Early reports and unverified video footage online suggested that flares emitting sparkling flames ignited ceiling decorations before the fire engulfed highly flammable construction materials. Iraq's Interior Ministry said it had issued 13 arrest warrants for the owners of the wedding hall.

Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani has issued directives for safety inspections of public places such as hotels, restaurants, and schools.