Iraq’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has formally extended its condolences to India following the tragic crash of an Air India passenger flight near Ahmedabad, which occurred on Thursday morning. The flight, carrying 242 people, came down shortly after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, resulting in a significant loss of life. In a statement released hours after the accident, the Iraqi government expressed its „deep sorrow and sympathy for the victims,” acknowledging the profound impact of the tragedy .
The flight, operated by Air India, was en route from Ahmedabad to London and included passengers from several countries. In its statement, Iraq’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs extended solidarity not only to Indian nationals but also to families of citizens from the United Kingdom, Portugal, and Canada, recognizing that the catastrophe had claimed lives of multiple international passengers .
The crash has triggered a massive and ongoing international rescue and investigation effort. While details about the cause remain unclear, various media sources suggest that the aircraft may have experienced a critical mechanical failure soon after departure, leading to its descent into a residential area and collision with local structures. Indian authorities have refrained from confirming the total number of casualties but acknowledge that the incident ranks among the worst aviation disasters in recent decades, with significant human toll likely .
India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) described the incident as a “tragic accident” and pledged full cooperation with the families of the victims and international governments. Thousands of rescue workers, including those from local police, fire and emergency services, were deployed immediately to retrieve bodies and provide medical aid. The MEA also announced that diplomatic officials from nations affected—including Canada and the United Kingdom—had been notified and were in regular contact with Indian authorities .
The international response has been swift and unified. The Prime Minister of Pakistan conveyed shock and grief on social media, while the United States offered immediate assistance, with former President Donald Trump stating that “everything possible will be done to help.” In the UK, Prime Minister Keir Starmer described the event as “devastating,” and King Charles and Queen Camilla extended their prayers and sympathies to those affected. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney expressed deep sorrow, while leaders from Portugal and Bangladesh also issued heartfelt tributes .
Among the passengers was former Chief Minister of Gujarat, Vijay Rupani, whose presence on the flight initially caused concern. Subsequent confirmation of his death deeply affected regional leadership, especially given that he was travelling to London for family reasons. Acknowledging the significance of his loss, Indian officials have announced efforts to repatriate his remains promptly .
India’s civil aviation authority, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), has launched a full investigation, with assistance from international aviation agencies including the U.K.’s Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB) and the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). Aircraft manufacturer Boeing and engine supplier GE Aerospace are coordinating closely with authorities and have promised full cooperation .
In the wake of the disaster, the Indian government has declared an inquiry panel to examine technical aspects and improve aviation safety. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah have traveled to Ahmedabad to oversee relief operations and support rescue teams working on the ground .
While flight operations at Ahmedabad airport were suspended temporarily, they have now resumed on a limited basis. Authorities are prioritizing passenger welfare and ensuring death and injury reports are officially confirmed before public release.
Iraq’s message of condolence is part of a broader wave of international support, highlighting global solidarity at a time of communal grief. As first responders continue frantic rescue and recovery efforts, Iraq’s diplomatic outreach underscores the universal extent of sorrow generated by the tragedy. The country’s offer of support complements messages from world leaders and reflects the shared human response to a crisis that crossed national boundaries and affected families worldwide.
Source: Shafaq News
