A devastating explosion at Iran’s largest commercial port has claimed the lives of at least 28 people, officials reported on Sunday. The blast occurred on Saturday at Shahid Rajaee Port, sending shockwaves through the coastal city and injuring more than 1,000 individuals.
Pirhossein Koolivand, the head of Iran’s Red Crescent, announced the updated death toll, expressing deep sorrow for the victims and their families. “Unfortunately, 28 people have so far died,” he stated in a video released on the government’s official website. Among the injured, some have been transferred to Tehran for specialized medical treatment.
The cause of the explosion is still under investigation, but authorities have ruled out any military involvement. Reza Talaei-Nik, a spokesperson for Iran’s Defense Ministry, emphasized that there was no military cargo at the blast site. “There has been no imported or exported cargo for military fuel or military use in the area of the fire incident and Shahid Rajaee Port,” he told state television.
The port, located in the strategic Strait of Hormuz, is a vital hub for Iran’s economy, handling a significant portion of the country’s maritime trade. The incident has raised concerns about safety protocols and infrastructure integrity at key industrial sites.
As rescue operations continue, local officials have urged residents to stay calm and cooperate with emergency services. The government has promised a thorough investigation to determine the cause of the tragedy and prevent future incidents.
The international community has expressed condolences and offered assistance. This incident marks one of the deadliest industrial accidents in Iran in recent years, shedding light on the pressing need for enhanced safety measures.
