A deadly explosion at Shahid Rajaee Port near Bandar Abbas, one of Iran’s busiest and most important ports, has claimed the lives of at least 46 people, and over 1,000 others have been injured, according to Iranian state television.
The explosion occurred on April 26, and the death toll continues to rise.
The explosion triggered a massive fire that is still raging at the port site two days later, with firefighting teams working tirelessly to control the flames.
Authorities have not yet provided a clear explanation for the cause of the explosion.
The explosion occurred just as Iran began the third round of talks with the U.S. about its advancing nuclear program, making the situation even more tense.
Footage of the blast shows thick, reddish-hued smoke rising from the site just before the explosion.
This color is often associated with chemical compounds, suggesting that the explosion may have involved a chemical reaction.
Video Credits: Guardian /YouTube
The incident is being compared to the devastating 2020 explosion at Beirut’s port, which was also linked to chemicals.
Reports from private security firm Ambrey claim that the port had received a shipment of ammonium perchlorate in March.
This chemical, which is commonly used to make solid rocket propellant, was reportedly sent from China to Iran by two vessels, as previously reported by the Financial Times.
The ammonium perchlorate was believed to be intended for replenishing Iran’s missile stockpiles, which had been depleted due to Iran’s military actions in the ongoing conflict with Israel and Hamas in Gaza.
However, Iranian officials, including the military, have denied any involvement in the shipment of ammonium perchlorate, calling such reports inaccurate.
The investigation into the explosion is still ongoing, and authorities have not ruled out the possibility of chemicals or other unknown factors being involved.
The fire still burning at the port area has complicated efforts to fully assess the damage.
Reference: AP News
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