Iranian port explosion: Tragedy strikes Bandar-e Abbas
A tragic explosion occurred at the Iranian port of Shahid Rajaei, claiming the lives of 18 people and injuring over 800. Authorities are investigating the disaster's causes, and the fire has yet to be completely extinguished.
What do you need to know?
- Where and when did the explosion happen? On Saturday, a powerful explosion occurred at 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 initial findings, the cause was a fire in a warehouse storing hazardous materials, including sodium perchlorate.
What are the causes of the explosion in Iran?
The explosion at the port of Shahid Rajaei, which handles 85% of Iranian goods, was heard from kilometres away. - The fire is under control but still not extinguished – reported a state television journalist.
Preliminary investigations indicate that the explosion created a fire in a warehouse containing chemical materials, including sodium perchlorate, used for rocket fuel production.
The governor of Hormozgan province, Mohamad Asheri, stated that authorities are investigating several potential causes of the disaster. - It is unlikely that the explosion was a result of sabotage – a representative of the central authorities emphasised. 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 US-Iran negotiations on a nuclear deal in Muscat, the capital of Oman. The aim of the talks is to limit Iran's nuclear programme in exchange for lifting sanctions. Despite positive assessments of previous negotiations, relations between the US and Iran remain tense.
