

Dozens killed in Iraqi shopping centre fire
4 snips Jul 17, 2025
A devastating fire at a newly opened shopping center in Iraq claimed over 60 lives, igniting urgent calls for better safety regulations. Meanwhile, tensions rise in southern Syria with military withdrawals and Israeli airstrikes, highlighting ongoing struggles in conflict zones. On a lighter note, the transition from high-fructose corn syrup to cane sugar in Coca-Cola reveals consumer nostalgia and health debates, while a Malian photographer uses public art to foster cultural pride despite challenging circumstances.
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Fire Tragedy Reveals Safety Failures
- The fire in the new Kut shopping centre killed over 60 people due to rapid spread and lack of safety measures.
- Social media outrage highlights failures in fire safety and government responsibility in Iraq's mall culture.
Syria's Suweda Shift After Clashes
- The Syrian government withdrew from Suweda province after heavy sectarian violence and Israeli airstrikes.
- Local leaders are now responsible for security amid fears of worsening instability and external interference.
Ukraine Government Reorg Prioritizes US
- Ukraine reshuffled its government to strengthen ties with the US and boost domestic weapons production.
- Focus is on producing more drones to counter Russian attacks and reducing reliance on foreign arms.