A catastrophic explosion at Iran’s largest commercial port has killed at least 46 people and injured over 1,000, as fires continue to burn and authorities investigate whether the deadly blast was an accident or intentional act.
Key Takeaways
- The explosion at Shahid Rajaee Port near Bandar Abbas killed 46 people and injured over 1,000, with 138 still hospitalized.
- Firefighters continue battling fires two days after the initial explosion at a hazardous materials storage depot.
- Iran’s Supreme Leader has ordered an investigation to determine if negligence or intentional action caused the blast.
- Reports indicate the explosion may have involved sodium perchlorate, a chemical used in missile fuel, though military officials deny military-related cargo was present.
- The incident occurs amid ongoing regional tensions and coincided with Iranian-US nuclear talks in Oman.
Devastating Explosion Rocks Strategic Iranian Port
Firefighters in Iran continue battling stubborn blazes at the nation’s largest commercial port two days after a massive explosion ripped through a hazardous materials storage area. The blast at Shahid Rajaee Port near the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global oil transport waterway, has left a trail of destruction and casualties. Provincial health authorities confirmed the rising death toll as recovery efforts continue amid challenging conditions.
CCTV footage reveals the explosion began with a small fire before rapidly escalating into a massive blast that could be felt miles away. Satellite images show devastating damage, including destroyed buildings, two large craters, and extensive damage to nearby shipping containers. The continuing fires have prompted authorities to close schools and government offices while advising residents to stay indoors and use protective masks.
❗️🇮🇷 – The death toll from an explosion at Iran's largest commercial port, Shahid Rajaee, rose to 28, with over 1,000 injured, according to the Iranian Red Crescent.
The cause remains unclear, with suspicions of improperly stored chemicals. Iran's Defense Ministry denied claims… pic.twitter.com/li6Yw5XRPl
— 🔥🗞The Informant (@theinformant_x) April 27, 2025
Investigation Focuses on Mysterious Chemical Cargo
Iran’s supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has ordered a thorough investigation to determine if the explosion resulted from “any negligence or intent.” Questions surrounding the nature of the materials involved have intensified after The New York Times reported that sodium perchlorate, a chemical used in missile fuel, may have been involved. Private security firm Ambrey reported the port received a shipment of ammonium perchlorate from China in March, though Iranian military officials have denied any military-related cargo was present.
Social media footage showed distinctive reddish smoke rising from the blast site, suggesting a chemical compound was involved. Multiple reports indicate the cargo may not have been properly reported to customs authorities, raising questions about who authorized its storage. Some analysts suggest this points to involvement of high-level authorities, potentially including Iran’s Revolutionary Guard.
Relief Efforts and Regional Implications
As the humanitarian crisis unfolds, Iranian health officials report that 138 wounded individuals remain hospitalized, with some in critical condition. Russia has sent specialists to assist in controlling the fires that continue to burn. The Iranian government has declared a national day of mourning, with authorities in Hormozgan province extending mourning to three days. Rescue teams face challenges as they navigate the hazardous environment to search for potential survivors and recover victims.
The explosion coincided with Iranian and US delegations meeting in Oman for nuclear talks, adding a layer of geopolitical complexity to the situation. The incident comes amid ongoing regional tensions and follows a history of suspected sabotage, including a 2020 cyberattack on the same port, allegedly carried out by Israel. While no direct evidence links this explosion to external forces, the timing and target have fueled speculation about possible foreign involvement, though Iranian officials have not made such accusations publicly as the investigation continues.
Sources:
Fires rage 2 days after Iran port blast killed 46
Iran says fire extinguished at a port rocked by explosion as the death toll rises to at least 70
Tehran in trouble: Deadly port explosion leaves Iran in a bind – analysis
