A deadly blast rocked Iran’s Shahid Rajaee Port, killing 28 people and injuring over 1,000. The “Iran port explosion” has raised serious concerns, as fires continue to blaze and emergency operations remain underway.
Devastating Explosion at Major Port
The explosion occurred on Saturday at Shahid Rajaee Port near Bandar Abbas, close to the vital Strait of Hormuz. Red Crescent chief Pirhossein Koolivand confirmed the updated death toll on Sunday, stating that over 1,000 people sustained injuries.
Authorities said the blast likely originated from a fire in a hazardous materials depot. Regional officials reported multiple container explosions, and live footage showed dense black smoke covering the area well into Sunday.
Possible Cause and Initial Findings
State television indicated the fire started in a chemical storage area. Sources linked to Iran’s Revolutionary Guard suggested sodium perchlorate — used in missile fuel — might have exploded.
Interior Minister Eskandar Momeni said on Sunday that the situation had been largely stabilized. He added that operations to load containers and clear customs had resumed despite ongoing firefighting efforts.
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Rising Casualties and Urgent Response
Images from the site showed crushed vehicles, burning trailers, and emergency teams battling towering flames. Hundreds of casualties were transported to hospitals, and authorities called for urgent blood donations.
Due to widespread air pollution from the smoke, schools and offices in Bandar Abbas were closed. The health ministry urged residents to stay indoors and wear protective masks.
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian expressed condolences and ordered a full investigation. Meanwhile, Iran declared three days of public mourning in Hormozgan province.
International Reactions and Assistance
The United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia expressed solidarity and condolences to Iran. Russian President Vladimir Putin also sent his sympathies and dispatched emergency aircraft to assist with firefighting and recovery operations.
Notably, the blast occurred during sensitive diplomatic talks between Iran and the United States in Oman, adding to the tense regional backdrop.
In conclusion The coming days will be critical as authorities investigate the full extent of the damage and the exact cause behind this devastating incident.
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