Kuwait Fire Latest: Indians among 41 dead; Jaishankar expresses sorrow

A devastating fire engulfed a residential building in Mangaf, a city located in southern Kuwait, early on Wednesday morning, claiming the lives of at least 41 individuals, including several Indian nationals. Reports indicate that the building, which served as accommodation for workers, housed nearly 160 people, all employees of the same company.

Police officers are seen outside the building that caught fire in Mangaf, southern Kuwait [Reuters]

The tragic incident was promptly reported to authorities at 6:00 a.m. local time by Major General Eid Rashed Hamad. According to officials, the fire originated in the building's kitchen, swiftly spreading through the six-story structure located in the Mangaf area within Kuwait's southern Ahmadi Governorate.

The aftermath of the fire saw a significant number of casualties and injuries, with approximately 43 individuals being rushed to nearby hospitals for medical attention. Regrettably, four of those hospitalized succumbed to their injuries, further deepening the tragedy.

In response to the calamity, Union Minister of External Affairs of India, Dr. S Jaishankar, took to social media to express his heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased. In a statement shared on a popular social media platform, Jaishankar conveyed his shock and sorrow at the devastating news, which reported over 40 fatalities and more than 50 individuals hospitalized. He assured that the Indian Embassy in Kuwait was actively involved, providing assistance and support to all affected parties.