A massive explosion at Iran’s largest port, Bandar Abbas, has left at least four people dead and over 500 injured, according to Iranian state media.
The blast, believed to have been caused by chemicals stored in containers, occurred in the Shahid Rajaee section of the port on Saturday, though there is no indication of a connection to ongoing nuclear talks between Iran and the United States in Oman.
Hossein Zafari, spokesperson for Iran’s crisis management organisation, pointed to poor storage of chemicals as the likely cause of the explosion. “The cause of the explosion was the chemicals inside the containers,” he told ILNA news agency, adding that the port had been previously warned about the potential dangers of improper storage.
An Iranian government spokesperson confirmed that chemicals were likely involved in the blast but said the exact cause had not yet been determined.
State television aired footage showing a vast black and orange smoke cloud rising above the port, along with images of an office building damaged by the explosion, its doors blown off and papers scattered around.
Bandar Abbas, located on the southern coast of Iran, handles most of the country’s containers in transit. The blast shattered windows several kilometres away and was heard on Qeshm Island, 26 kilometres south of the port.
The semi-official Tasnim news agency shared images of injured individuals receiving medical attention amid chaotic scenes. Initial reports indicated that the explosion resulted from multiple containers detonating, with relief workers on the scene attempting to control fires.
Authorities stated that activities at the port were halted following the explosion, and trucks were evacuated from the area. Customs officials noted that the container yard where the blast occurred likely contained hazardous chemicals.
The explosion has raised further concerns about safety at one of the most critical points for Iran’s trade and logistics.
Follow us on: