Deadly Explosion Rocks Iran’s Largest Port, Over 700 Injured
A massive explosion shook Bandar Abbas, Iran’s largest port, on Saturday, leaving at least 14 people dead and more than 700 injured, according to Iranian state media.
The blast, believed to have been caused by the explosion of chemical materials in a container at the port, sent shockwaves through the coastal city. Thick plumes of smoke billowed into the sky, and residents reported feeling the ground tremble miles away from the epicenter.
Ahmad Pouyafar, governor of Bandar Abbas, announced that all educational centers across the city would be closed on Sunday due to the explosion and the resulting air pollution. “The safety of our citizens is our top priority,” he stated.
China’s Consulate General in Bandar Abbas confirmed that three Chinese citizens sustained minor injuries in the explosion. They have received medical treatment and are reported to be in good condition.
Hossein Zafari, spokesperson for the National Disaster Management Organization, told the semi-official Fars News Agency that the explosion was caused by chemical materials in a container at the port. However, Iranian government spokesperson Fatemeh Mohajerani urged caution against “hasty speculations” regarding the cause of the incident, noting that investigations are still underway.
“What has been confirmed so far is that there were containers, likely holding chemical materials, at a corner of the port,” Mohajerani said.
Rapid reaction and rescue teams have been dispatched to the scene, and all port activities have been suspended. Authorities warn that the number of casualties may rise as search and rescue operations continue.
In a post on social media platform X, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian expressed his sympathy to the victims and their families. He announced that he has ordered an investigation into the blast and its cause. Additionally, Iran’s Interior Minister, Eskandar Momeni, has been dispatched to the province to coordinate response efforts and address the condition of the injured.
The incident has drawn international concern. The Iraqi Foreign Ministry extended condolences to the government and people of Iran, expressing deep sympathy to the families of the victims and wishing a speedy recovery for the injured. Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ al-Sudani directed Interior Minister Abdul Amir al-Shammari to coordinate with his Iranian counterpart to assess the incident and provide immediate assistance.
The port of Bandar Abbas is a vital hub for Iran’s trade and commerce, and the explosion is expected to have significant implications for the region’s economy. The authorities are urging the public to stay calm and follow official updates as more information becomes available.
