Press Article: Tragedy Strikes Iran’s Shahid Rajaee Port After Devastating Explosion
Iran, April 29, 2023 — Firefighters battled fierce blazes on Monday at Shahid Rajaee Port, Iran’s largest commercial hub, following a catastrophic explosion on Saturday that claimed the lives of at least 40 individuals and injured over 1,000. The incident, which occurred near the strategic Strait of Hormuz—a critical passage for global oil—triggered additional smaller explosions and fires among nearby containers.
The destruction began with a minor blaze linked to a chemical storage depot, according to the port’s customs office. Video footage posted on social media showed a gradual build-up of smoke and a subsequent fireball explosion, scattering men and vehicles in a desperate escape.
Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has ordered an investigation to ascertain any negligence or intentional actions behind the disaster. In the wake of the explosion, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian visited local hospitals treating the injured, while officials ordered the closure of schools and offices in the vicinity, advising residents to use protective masks.
Authorities suspect that sodium perchlorate—a component used in missile solid fuel—was involved, leading to concerns over potential military implications; although local defense ministry representatives denied the presence of any military cargo at the site.
International response included assistance from Russia, which dispatched specialists to help extinguish the fires. A national day of mourning has been declared alongside three days of mourning in Hormozgan province. The devastating event coincides with ongoing high-level talks between Iranian and U.S. delegations in Oman regarding Tehran’s nuclear program.
While Iranian authorities characterize the explosion as an accident, it follows a history of regional tensions, including previous cyberattacks attributed to Israel at the port. The full scope of damages is still being assessed as firefighters continue their battle against the lingering flames.
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Photo credit www.hindustantimes.com
