Explosion at Iranian Port Kills Four, Injures Over 500

Blast Triggers Fire and Widespread Damage

A massive explosion at Shahid Rajaee port in Bandar Abbas, southwestern Iran, killed four people and injured 516 others, authorities confirmed. The blast occurred in a warehouse storing chemicals, producing a large plume of smoke visible in geolocated footage. Witnesses reported shattered windows several kilometers away, while debris scattered across the area and buildings suffered severe structural damage. Helicopters deployed water to combat flames stemming from the explosion, which officials linked to chemical storage.

Rescue Efforts and Investigation Launched

Rescuers worked to free individuals trapped under collapsed structures, with injured victims transported to local hospitals. Governor Mohammad Ashouri Taziani stated the fire had been contained, but maritime operations at the strategically vital port remain suspended. President Masoud Pezeshkian ordered an inquiry, dispatching the interior minister to assess the situation. “It will take time to establish the cause,” government spokeswoman Fatemeh Mohajerani said, adding preliminary findings suggest exploding chemical containers may be responsible.

Strategic Port Halts Operations

Shahid Rajaee, one of Iran’s largest ports, spans 2,400 hectares and handles 70 million tons of cargo annually, including oil and commercial goods. The explosion disrupted activity across its 35 berths and 500,000 square meters of warehouse facilities, impacting national and international shipments. Officials have not provided a timeline for resuming operations.