For many 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.<\/p>\n
On their wedding night in Qaraqosh, Iraq, tragedy struck as a fire broke out at the banquet hall filled with 900 guests. The flames erupted while the couple danced, quickly engulfing the ceiling and sparking chaos.<\/p>\n
Revan recalled hearing crackling before the nylon ceiling began to melt. Though fireworks were initially blamed, he believes it may have been an electrical short circuit. Panic spread fast as guests rushed to escape. Revan dragged Haneen through the kitchen, her legs injured in the stampede.<\/p>\n
His father had warned about fireworks, but the venue assured them they were safe. When the fire started, the only extinguisher failed. Many were trapped; over 100 died, and 150 were injured. Haneen lost 10 relatives, including her mother and brother, and her father was critically hurt.<\/p>\n
Authorities later confirmed the ceiling was made of flammable material that violated safety regulations. The roof collapsed within minutes. Fourteen people were arrested, including those who handled the fireworks.<\/p>\n
Devastated, the couple fled their hometown. \u201cEvery time we find happiness, tragedy destroys it,\u201d Revan said. Haneen has not spoken since. \u201cWe\u2019re alive, but dead inside,\u201d Revan added.<\/p>\n
What was meant to be a joyful beginning has become a lifelong scar.<\/p>\n