Saudi Arabia mourns tragedy at Islamabad’s PIMS hospital

ISLAMABAD: Saudi Arabia has expressed deep sorrow and condolences over the tragic incident at Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) in Islamabad, extending solidarity to the Pakistani government and people during a difficult time.

The Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs conveyed its condolences following the deadly incident at the hospital, where a fire in the mother and child health ward claimed the lives of at least 14 newborn babies.

In a statement, the Saudi ministry said the Kingdom stood with Pakistan and its people during the painful moment. It also expressed its hopes for peace, safety and security for Pakistan and its brotherly people.

The tragedy at PIMS, one of Islamabad’s major public-sector hospitals, has triggered grief across the country and raised fresh questions about fire safety and emergency preparedness at healthcare facilities.

According to preliminary reports, the blaze broke out early Wednesday morning in the mother and child health ward. Officials said an air-conditioning unit was involved in the incident, while the presence of high oxygen levels in the nursery contributed to the rapid spread of the fire.

The Pakistani government has ordered an investigation into the incident, with authorities expected to determine how the fire started and whether safety procedures were properly followed.

Saudi Arabia’s message adds to international expressions of sympathy as Pakistan mourns the loss of the newborns and families await answers over the tragedy.