Bandar Abbas, Iran — A massive explosion rocked Iran’s largest port, Shahid Rajaee, in Bandar Abbas on Saturday, killing at least four people and injuring more than 500. The blast, reportedly caused by chemical materials stored improperly, has devastated the port and halted its operations, Iranian state media reported.
The explosion occurred as Iran resumed nuclear talks with the United States in Oman, though there is no immediate evidence linking the two events.
Details Emerge on the Cause
Hossein Zafari, a spokesperson for Iran’s crisis management organization, attributed the explosion to improperly stored chemicals. “The cause of the explosion was the chemicals inside the containers,” Zafari told ILNA news agency, adding that previous warnings about storage risks at Shahid Rajaee had been issued but apparently not addressed.
Government officials have refrained from confirming the exact cause, stating that investigations are ongoing.
Footage aired by state media showed a towering black-and-orange smoke cloud over the port and widespread destruction, including shattered windows several kilometers away. The blast’s sound was reportedly heard as far as Qeshm Island, 26 kilometers (16 miles) south of the port.
Impact on Port Operations
The explosion occurred in the container yard, where customs officials stated hazardous chemicals were likely stored. Relief workers are actively battling fires, while trucks are being evacuated. All port activities have been suspended until further notice.
Shahid Rajaee Port is a key hub in Iran’s economy, handling the majority of its container traffic. Despite the port’s strategic importance, this incident has exposed critical vulnerabilities in safety protocols.
Context and Speculation
This is not the first time Iran’s infrastructure has faced significant damage. A history of industrial accidents, including refinery fires and gas explosions, has plagued the country, often attributed to negligence.
Some incidents have been linked to alleged attacks by Israel, which opposes Iran’s nuclear program. Notably, Shahid Rajaee Port was targeted by a cyberattack in 2020, which international reports suggested was Israeli retaliation for an Iranian cyberattack.
While Iranian authorities have not suggested external sabotage in Saturday’s explosion, the geopolitical climate adds layers of speculation. Israel, which remains wary of Iran’s nuclear capabilities, has not commented on the incident.
Relief Efforts and Casualty Reports
Emergency teams have deployed 15 ambulances, four ambulance buses, and an air emergency helicopter to manage the aftermath. At least 40 of the injured are receiving treatment at Shahid Mohammadi Hospital. The Shiraz emergency department is on high alert, prepared for further casualties.
Oil facilities near the port were not affected, according to Iranian officials. The National Iranian Petroleum Refining and Distribution Company confirmed that its operations remain intact.
This is a developing story. Updates will follow as more information becomes available.
