Iranian port explosion claims 18 lives, injures hundreds
A tragic explosion occurred in the Iranian port of Shahid Rajaei, claiming the lives of 18 people and injuring over 800. Authorities are investigating the causes of the disaster, and the fire has not yet been completely extinguished.
What do you need to know?
- Where and when did the explosion happen? On Saturday at 3:30 a.m. Eastern Time, a powerful explosion occurred in the port of Shahid Rajaei in Bandar-e Abbas, the largest Iranian commercial port.
- What are the consequences of the explosion? At least 18 people have died, and more than 800 have been injured, many seriously. The fire has not yet been completely extinguished.
- What was the cause of the explosion? According to preliminary findings, the cause was a fire in a warehouse containing hazardous materials, such as sodium perchlorate.
What are the causes of the explosion in Iran?
The explosion in the port of Shahid Rajaei, which handles 85% of Iranian goods, was heard from several kilometres away. - The fire is under control but still not extinguished – reported a state television journalist.
Preliminary investigation indicates that the explosion was caused by a fire in a warehouse with chemical materials, including sodium perchlorate, used for rocket fuel production.
The governor of Hormozgan province, Mohamad Asheri, stated that authorities are investigating several possible causes of the disaster. - It is unlikely that the explosion was a result of sabotage – a representative of the central authorities emphasized. Israeli Channel 12, citing government sources, reported that Israel was not involved in the explosion.
What are the international reactions?
The explosion occurred during the third round of U.S.-Iran negotiations on a nuclear deal in Muscat, the capital of Oman. The aim of the talks is to limit Iran's nuclear program in exchange for lifting sanctions. Despite positive assessments of previous negotiations, relations between the United States and Iran remain tense.
