Pakistan has received messages of sympathy and support from several countries following the devastating fire at PIMS in Islamabad that reportedly killed 14 newborn babies.
Saudi Arabia was among the countries expressing condolences, offering support to the families who lost their children and standing with Pakistan during the period of national mourning.
Messages of sympathy were also received from Iran, Türkiye, China, the United Kingdom, France, Spain, Nigeria, Syria and Afghanistan. The international response reflected the widespread shock and grief following the loss of the newborns.
The tragedy has also drawn attention to the safety conditions inside public healthcare facilities. Questions have been raised about fire prevention systems, emergency response procedures and whether sufficient arrangements were available to protect newborn patients.
Pakistani authorities have launched an investigation into the incident to establish how the fire started and whether any failures contributed to the deaths. Officials have said that those found responsible for negligence will face accountability.
The investigation is expected to examine the circumstances surrounding the fire as well as the hospital’s emergency response and safety arrangements. Its findings could determine whether additional action is required within the hospital.
For the affected families, the international condolences come as they continue to cope with an immense personal loss. The incident has also prompted wider public concern about the protection of vulnerable patients in government hospitals.
The tragedy has strengthened calls for hospitals to review their fire-safety systems, emergency plans and staff preparedness. Effective detection, evacuation and response measures are especially important in neonatal units, where patients cannot move without assistance.
As the investigation continues, families and the public are awaiting answers about what went wrong and what steps will be taken to prevent a similar tragedy in the future.
The messages from countries around the world have highlighted the scale of the tragedy while offering support to Pakistan and the families affected.
