Title: Iran: 9 Dead in Hospital Fire (Video)

Iranian news agencies reported today that at least 9 people have died in a fire at the "Qaim" private hospital in Rasht, northern Iran, after flames broke out in the 250-bed facility. Sadegh Niarki, head of the judiciary in Gilan province, told Iranian television that "as a result of this incident, eight patients admitted to the intensive care unit passed away, and 120 injured individuals were transferred to other medical centers." An hour later, the death toll was confirmed to have risen to 9. The head of the fire department and safety services in Rasht stated that the fire originated from the basement, but did not disclose the cause of the incident. Reports indicate that the fire was contained after three hours.