Iraq investigates deadly ammonia gas leak at Basra factory

An ammonia gas leak at a state-run fertiliser factory in Basra, southern Iraq, resulted in at least two deaths and over 100 injuries, according to the Health Ministry. The incident occurred over the weekend, with 114 people injured overall, though most have since recovered, leaving 21 still hospitalized, including one in critical condition.

Industry Minister Mohammed Nouri has ordered a special committee to investigate the cause of the leak, which occurred at a time when gas supplies were shut off and pumps secured, preventing a potential larger explosion. The gas cloud has begun to dissipate, with no immediate threat to the area. The plant is located in the Al Zubair district, where Mayor Abbas Maher reported that residents of nearby neighborhoods were among those affected.

Basra is home to a significant portion of Iraq's oil wealth, with the province accounting for over 70% of the country's crude reserves and output, as well as nearly all of its oil exports. Despite this economic importance, industrial safety remains a concern in the country, with issues such as technical faults, lack of maintenance, and in some cases, sabotage or negligence, often cited as contributing factors to accidents.