A massive explosion at Iran’s Port of Shahid Rajaee in Hormozgan province on Saturday killed at least five people and injured over 700, according to Iranian state media. The semi-official Fars news agency attributed the figures to Mehrdad Hassanzadeh, head of the province’s crisis management organization, who confirmed casualties were spread across hospitals in Bandar Abbas.
The blast, triggered by chemical materials in a container at the port, caused extensive structural damage and led to a temporary suspension of operations. Three Chinese citizens sustained minor injuries in the incident and received immediate medical care, China’s Consulate General in Bandar Abbas confirmed.
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian expressed sympathy for victims via social media and ordered a full investigation. Authorities, including Interior Minister Eskandar Momeni, have been deployed to coordinate rescue efforts, though officials cautioned against speculative claims about the cause. “Containers with chemical materials were present in the area,” said government spokeswoman Fatemeh Mohajerani, stressing the need for patience pending official findings.
The incident highlights risks at critical trade hubs in Asia, underscoring safety concerns for maritime logistics and international businesses. Emergency response teams remain on-site as fears persist that casualty numbers may rise.
