An explosion rocked a port in Iran’s southern province of Hormozgan on Saturday, leaving at least five people dead and over 700 injured, according to local media reports.
Mehrdad Hassanzadeh, director general of the provincial crisis management organization, confirmed the casualties, stating that the injured have been hospitalized in medical centers across the port city of Bandar Abbas.
Reports indicate that the blast occurred at a gas tank at the Port of Shahid Rajaee, causing extensive damage to nearby buildings and vehicles. Some officials have suggested that chemical materials in a container at the port may have triggered the explosion. Authorities have urged the public to avoid speculation until investigations are complete.
Three Chinese citizens sustained minor injuries in the incident but are reported to be in good condition after receiving medical treatment, according to China’s Consulate General in Bandar Abbas.
Rescue teams have been dispatched to the scene, and all port activities have been suspended. The number of injured is expected to rise as emergency services continue their operations.
The Iranian president extended sympathy to the victims and announced an immediate investigation into the cause of the explosion. The Interior Minister has been sent to the province to coordinate relief efforts and address the needs of the injured.
