A huge explosion at a strategic port in southern Iran has killed 70 people and injured nearly 1,200. The blast occurred at the Shahid Rajaee port, which handles 85% of Iran’s shipping container traffic.
Iranian officials have said they found “false statements” in the documentation for a shipment believed to have triggered the explosion. Investigators are seeking to identify those behind the false statements, which authorities say led to the blast.
The cargo was classified and stored as ordinary goods, despite containing hazardous substances, including sodium perchlorate, a major ingredient in solid fuel for missiles.
Forensics specialists are still working to identify 22 bodies from the victims. The provincial governor said that some of the injured were being treated in hospitals, while others have recovered.
The Shahid Rajaee port has been a target of foreign attack before. However, Iranian officials say there is no evidence that last week’s blast was the result of an attack.
An investigation committee chairman vowed to make its results public “as soon as possible.” The incident highlights concerns over safety and security at Iran’s critical ports, which play a key role in supporting the country’s economy.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/04/29/world/europe/iran-port-explosion.html