On Saturday, a massive explosion at Iran’s Shahid Rajaee port in Bandar Abbas killed at least 40 people and injured more than 1,000 others. The blast caused extensive damage to port offices, shattered windows several kilometers away, and a large crater was visible at the site.
The cause of the explosion remains unclear, with initial reports suggesting that hazardous chemicals were stored at the port, including sodium perchlorate, a substance used in missile propellant. Private security firm Ambrey suggested the explosion was caused by improper handling of these materials. However, the Iranian Defense Ministry denied that missile fuel was involved, dismissing such reports as foreign disinformation.
Local authorities have warned of air pollution from chemicals like ammonia and sulfur dioxide in the area, leading to the closure of schools and businesses. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian visited the injured and expressed his condolences, calling for a thorough investigation of the cause of the explosion.
