An explosion at the Shahid Rajaee port in Bandar Abbas, Iran, has claimed the lives of at least 14 individuals and left over 750 others injured.
The blast, which occurred on Saturday, generated a massive plume of smoke visible for miles around the port, which serves as one of Iran’s key shipping hubs. Rescue operations are still underway, with six individuals reported missing and many trapped beneath the rubble.
The Iranian government suspects the explosion was caused by stored chemicals, though the exact cause remains unclear. High winds have further complicated firefighting efforts, with flames continuing to rage hours after the incident. Schools and offices within a 23-kilometre radius of the port have been closed due to severe air pollution resulting from the thick smoke.
Authorities have declared a state of emergency, urging residents to stay indoors and avoid outdoor activities to minimise health risks. President Masoud Pezeshkian has ordered an immediate investigation, dispatching the Minister of Interior to oversee rescue and relief efforts.
The explosion has caused extensive damage to the port complex and the surrounding areas, including shattered windows and debris scattered over several kilometres. As emergency services work to manage the crisis, operations at the Shahid Rajaee port have been suspended indefinitely.
