Countries from Riyadh to Tehran and Ankara have expressed strong solidarity with Pakistan after the tragic fire at the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences in Islamabad. The blaze in the Mother and Child Health ward claimed the lives of at least 14 newborn babies, leaving families shattered and the nation in mourning.
The Saudi Foreign Ministry issued a statement offering sincere condolences and sympathy to the victims’ families as well as the government and people of Pakistan. The Kingdom reaffirmed its support during this time of profound grief and wished continued security and safety for the country. Iran and Turkey also conveyed heartfelt messages of support, standing firmly with Pakistan.
Other nations quickly joined in. The United Kingdom’s British High Commission called the incident heartbreaking and shared deepest condolences with the parents. Turkey’s embassy expressed deep sadness over the loss of newborn lives. France described the event as deeply distressing, while Spain’s embassy offered heartfelt thoughts for everyone affected. China’s embassy extended deep sorrow and sympathies to the bereaved families. Nigeria, Syria, and Afghanistan’s embassy in Islamabad also sent messages of condolence and solidarity.
The fire broke out around 7 am on the third floor of the hospital’s Mother and Child Health ward. Federal Health Minister Mustafa Kamal stated that a blast in an air conditioner sparked the flames, which spread rapidly due to the high oxygen levels present. Authorities have launched a full investigation and promised accountability. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif suspended the health secretary shortly after ordering the probe.
Survivors and grieving parents described a scene of chaos. One mother named Javeria said there was no doctor or nurse visible at the time, and the children’s bodies were taken away without families being able to see them. Another parent, Mudasir, noted the building lacked proper fire security and emergency exits, with most doors locked. Officials have denied claims that staff were completely absent.
This remains one of the deadliest hospital fires in recent years in Pakistan, where public healthcare facilities often face criticism for being under-resourced. As messages of support continue to arrive from around the world, the focus stays on supporting the grieving families and ensuring such a tragedy never happens again.
