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Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- A fire erupted at an arms depot at Camp Taji, a major military base north of Baghdad, due to high temperatures.
- The Iraqi defense ministry stated the fire caused ammunition to detonate.
- Firefighters are working to control the blaze at the camp, which previously hosted international coalition troops.
High temperatures on Sunday caused a fire to break out in an arms depot at Camp Taji, a significant military base located north of Baghdad. The Iraqi defense ministry confirmed the incident, stating that the warehouse contained ammunition belonging to the 9th armored division. A government security media cell reported that an explosion occurred within the camp as ammunition detonated due to the intense heat.
Firefighters are currently engaged in efforts to combat the blaze. Camp Taji has a history of hosting international forces, having previously served as a base for troops from the US-led anti-jihadist coalition before their withdrawal. The incident highlights the risks associated with storing munitions, particularly during Iraq's blistering summer months.
A fire broke out in a warehouse at Camp Taji due to high temperatures.
Explosions at military bases and munitions storage facilities are not uncommon in Iraq. This is often attributed to disregarded safety standards and the extreme weather conditions, with summer temperatures frequently approaching 50 degrees Celsius. The situation at Camp Taji is being closely monitored as authorities work to contain the fire and prevent further escalation.
an explosion erupted inside Camp Taji and some ammunition detonated due to the heat.
Originally published by Daily Star. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.