2LT International News

MAJURO, Marshall Islands: A devastating fire has destroyed the national parliament of the Marshall Islands, officials from the fire and police departments confirmed on August 26.

Authorities said the blaze, which broke out overnight, has since been brought under control.

According to the Marshall Islands Fire Department, about half of the parliament building, known locally as the Nitijela, was burned down in the fire. However, the rest of the structure is so severely damaged that it cannot be used.

A police official, speaking to Reuters by telephone, confirmed that the parliament building had been destroyed. He added that a fire truck had been deployed to the scene to tackle the blaze.

The Marshall Islands is a small Pacific nation located roughly halfway between Hawaii and Australia. Its population is around 42,000, with nearly half living in the capital city, Majuro, where the Nitijela is located.

The country’s most critical international ties include its Compact of Free Association with the United States, under which Washington provides economic aid in return for military access. The Marshall Islands also maintains full diplomatic relations with Taiwan, rather than China.

When contacted, President Hilda Heine’s spokesperson did not immediately respond to requests for comment regarding the fire or the government’s next steps.

Meanwhile, Taiwan expressed its sympathy over the destruction. Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung conveyed his condolences to the Marshall Islands and assured that Taiwan would continue to stand with its ally.

In a statement, Taiwan’s foreign ministry said it would remain in close communication with the Marshall Islands’ government and provide assistance “in a timely manner,” though no specific details were given.