Fire Near Tehran Hotel Triggers Evacuation Amid Heavy Smoke

TEHRAN-A fire broke out in a building adjacent to Tehran’s Hotel Esteghlal on Monday, sending thick smoke over northern parts of the Iranian capital and prompting the evacuation of hotel guests as emergency crews worked to contain the blaze.

AFP journalists at the scene reported dense black and white smoke rising above the area, with flames visible in the neighbouring building from surrounding rooftops. The cause of the fire was not immediately known, and authorities did not specify the type of building involved.

A correspondent for Iranian state television said guests inside Hotel Esteghlal were being evacuated as a precaution while firefighters responded to the incident. Footage broadcast by state television showed multiple fire engines at the scene as emergency personnel battled the flames and bystanders gathered nearby.

There were no immediate reports of fatalities or injuries, and officials had not released further details on the extent of the damage.

Hotel Esteghlal, formerly known as the Royal Hilton, was built in the 1960s, according to Iran’s state news agency IRNA. The landmark hotel is one of Tehran’s best-known hospitality venues.

Fires occur regularly in Iran, particularly during the hotter months of the year. Authorities have frequently attributed such incidents in older buildings to technical faults and ageing infrastructure.

Emergency services remained at the scene on Monday as efforts continued to extinguish the fire and secure the affected area.