The death toll from a powerful explosion at Iran’s biggest port of Bandar Abbas has risen to at least 40, with more than 1,200 people injured, state media reported on Sunday, as firefighters worked to fully extinguish the fire.
Blast Rocks Iran’s Bandar Abbas Port
- At least 40 people killed and over 1,200 injured after a powerful explosion at Bandar Abbas, Iran’s biggest port.
- Explosion occurred at Shahid Rajaee section, Iran’s largest container hub.
- Firefighters and helicopters worked into Sunday night to control persistent fires.
Details of the Explosion
- Blast shattered windows for several kilometres, damaged shipping containers, and destroyed goods.
- Chemicals stored at the port suspected of fueling the explosion.
- Exact cause remains unclear; Iran’s Defence Ministry denied mishandling of missile-related solid fuel.
- Ministry called reports of missile fuel mishandling “aligned with enemy psyops” and stated no military cargo was involved.
International Reports and Speculations
- British security firm Ambrey cited that the port received sodium perchlorate shipments (used for missile propulsion) in March.
- Financial Times reported Iranian vessels from China delivered enough sodium perchlorate to fuel 260 mid-range missiles earlier in 2024.
Ongoing Firefighting Efforts and Port Operations
- Black smoke and debris scattered across the blast site.
- By Sunday afternoon, the Red Crescent Society reported 90% of the fire extinguished.
- Unaffected parts of the Shahid Rajaee port resumed operations.
Investigation and Official Reactions
- Crisis management officials blamed poor chemical storage for the explosion.
- Previous safety warnings regarding chemical storage had been issued.
- Government spokesperson urged against “premature speculation” until investigations are complete.
History of Negligence and Industrial Accidents in Iran
- Negligence frequently cited in previous refinery fires, gas mine explosions, and industrial accidents.
- President Masoud Pezeshkian criticized the prolonged storage of containers at the port.
- Reference made to past incidents, including a 2023 repair accident at Bandar Abbas that killed a worker.
Broader Context of Tensions and Blame
- Iran has previously blamed Israel for attacks targeting Iranian infrastructure and nuclear programmes.
- Recent direct missile confrontations between Iran and Israel also cited in the context.
