21 dead, over 6,400 injured in annual fire festival in Iran
20/03/2025
The festival, celebrated on the eve of Nowruz - the Persian New Year - sees residents lighting fires and jumping over them, as well as playing with fireworks, firecrackers and homemade explosives. - Image/ Reuters
ISTANBUL/TEHRAN: At least 21 people were killed while 6,419 others were injured during the Chaharshanbe Suri festival, Iran's annual fire festival, Anadolu Ajansi (AA) reported, citing a statement by authorities on Wednesday.
The festival, celebrated on the eve of Nowruz - the Persian New Year - sees residents in Tehran and other cities light fires and jump past them, as well as playing with fireworks, firecrackers and even homemade explosives.
Despite the Tehran Police Department's strong warnings and the use of drones to monitor the use of explosives, several incidents have occurred that have resulted in deaths and injuries. Iran's Emergency Medical Service confirmed 18 of the victims were still critical.
Tehran, East Azerbaijan and West Azerbaijan regions recorded the highest number of injuries.
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