Iran port explosion: Death toll rises to 70, over 1,200 injured in Bandar Abbas blast

At least 70 people have died and more than 1,200 have been injured following a massive explosion at Iran’s key container port, Bandar Abbas. The blast, which struck Saturday at the Shahid Rajaee terminal, Iran’s main container hub, triggered a large fire that firefighters struggled to contain amid strong winds and flammable cargo. Authorities now report the fire is under control, though toxic emissions from burning materials continue to pose risks.

Hormozgan Province’s governor told state media that rescue operations are ongoing and warned that clearing the site could take up to two weeks due to hazardous conditions. Interior Minister Eskandar Momeni stated that national-level firefighting efforts have ended, with local authorities now managing the situation. He noted that security lapses contributed to the disaster, and some individuals responsible have been summoned for investigation.

An initial report from the investigative committee cited failures in civil defense and safety protocols as key factors. As of Monday, 22 people remain missing, and 22 recovered bodies are yet to be identified, according to state television.