For most couples, a wedding is the happiest day of their lives. But for Haneen and Revan, their celebration turned into a nightmare that will haunt them forever.
During their wedding in Qaraqosh, Iraq—attended by around 900 guests—a fire broke out as they danced. The flames, believed to have started in the ceiling between 10:00 and 10:45 p.m., spread rapidly due to flammable materials and possible electrical issues. Initial reports blamed fireworks, though Revan believes it started above them.
Panic erupted as guests rushed to escape. Revan dragged his injured wife through the chaos to safety, but over 100 people died and at least 150 were injured. Haneen lost 10 family members, including her mother and brother; her father was critically hurt.
A fire extinguisher failed, and parts of the building collapsed within minutes. Investigators later found the ceiling violated safety regulations. Fourteen people were arrested, including those responsible for the fireworks.
In the aftermath, the couple was left devastated. Haneen has not spoken since, and Revan says they can no longer live in their hometown. “We’re alive, but inside, we’re dead,” he told Sky News.
This tragedy is a heartbreaking reminder of the dangers of indoor fireworks and poor safety standards. The pain endured by Haneen and Revan is unimaginable, and all we can do is hope they find the strength to heal.