Islamabad: Pakistan received messages of condolence and solidarity from several countries following a fire at the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) in Islamabad that killed at least 14 newborn babies, as authorities launched an investigation into the incident.
Saudi Arabia, Iran, Türkiye, China, the United Kingdom, France, Spain, Nigeria, Syria and Afghanistan expressed sympathy for the victims’ families and support for Pakistan following the tragedy.
The Saudi Foreign Ministry extended its condolences to the families of the victims and expressed solidarity with the Pakistani government and people. Iran and Syria also conveyed condolences, while Türkiye’s embassy said it was deeply saddened by the loss of newborn lives.
The United Kingdom’s British High Commission described the incident as heartbreaking and offered condolences to the affected families. China, France, Spain, Nigeria and Afghanistan similarly expressed sympathy.
What happened at the PIMS hospital in Islamabad?
The fire broke out at around 7am on Wednesday on the third floor of PIMS’s Mother and Child Health ward. Federal Health Minister Mustafa Kamal said the blaze followed an explosion in an air conditioner and spread rapidly because of the high concentration of oxygen in the ward.
At least 14 newborn babies were killed in the fire, according to reports, while the affected ward was subsequently sealed off as authorities began investigating the cause and circumstances of the blaze.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif ordered an investigation and suspended the health secretary following the incident.
The tragedy also prompted questions about fire safety arrangements at the hospital. Relatives of victims alleged that the ward lacked adequate fire-safety measures and emergency exits, while the health minister rejected claims that doctors and medical staff were absent when the fire occurred.
How has the international community responded to Pakistan?
Messages of support continued to arrive from foreign governments and diplomatic missions as Pakistan dealt with the loss of the newborns.
The United States was also among countries expressing concern and sympathy, while the international response included condolences from countries across the Middle East, Asia, Europe and Africa.
The incident has renewed attention on safety standards and emergency preparedness in public healthcare facilities, while Pakistani authorities continue their investigation into the circumstances surrounding the fire.