What is the latest on the death toll from Iran's port blast?
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Synopsis
The devastating explosion at Shahid Rajaee Port in Hormozgan, Iran, has led to a staggering death toll of 65, with over 1,200 injuries reported. Investigation into the causes reveals negligence and safety protocol violations. As rescue operations continue, the incident raises questions about safety regulations in one of the country's major maritime hubs.
Key Takeaways
- Death toll from the blast has reached 65.
- Over 1,200 individuals injured.
- Negligence and failure to follow safety protocols identified as causes.
- Investigation ordered by Supreme Leader Khamenei.
- Port operations have resumed despite the tragedy.
Tehran, April 28 (NationPress) The tragic toll from a massive explosion and the resultant fire at Shahid Rajaee Port in the southern Iranian province of Hormozgan on Saturday has tragically climbed to 65, with over 1,200 individuals injured, as reported by media outlets on Monday, referencing the provincial governor.
The fire has been fully extinguished, while rescue and relief efforts are still underway, according to Mohammad Ashouri Taziani, who spoke to the semi-official Mehr news agency.
Earlier on Monday, Iran's Interior Minister Eskandar Momeni pointed to “certain negligence” as a contributing factor to the catastrophic explosion in the provincial capital, Bandar Abbas, home to the nation's largest maritime hub.
In an interview with state-run IRIB TV, he elaborated on the ongoing investigations aimed at uncovering the causes behind this incident.
Momeni noted that during a previous meeting in Bandar Abbas discussing the cause of the explosion, several individuals whose negligence was confirmed had been summoned.
He emphasized that inadequate adherence to safety regulations and passive defense measures significantly contributed to this disaster, urging relevant authorities and the investigative committee to expedite their efforts to accurately determine the complete cause.
“Shortcomings related to disregarding security protocols have been identified, and some individuals responsible have been summoned,” Momeni stated, as reported by state media.
On Sunday, Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei ordered an investigation to “uncover any negligence or intent” behind the incident, suggesting that authorities are not dismissing the possibility of sabotage.
The explosion coincided with Iran's commencement of a third round of nuclear discussions with the US in Oman, though there is no indication of a connection between the two events.
On Monday, Iran's Infrastructure Communications Company announced that a significant cyber attack against the nation’s infrastructure was thwarted just a day after the blast, without providing further details.
Investigations suggest that improper storage of chemicals in containers may have triggered the explosion.
A spokesperson for the crisis management organization indicated on Saturday that prior warnings had highlighted potential safety risks at the port.
Iran's Defence Ministry refuted reports from international media suggesting the explosion could be linked to the mishandling of solid fuel used in missiles.
In the aftermath of the deadly explosion, Hossein Sajedinia, head of Iran's National Disaster Management Organization, informed IRIB that some containers at the port were filled with flammable materials, such as pitch, while others contained various chemicals.
Despite this tragic incident, the port's wharfs have reportedly resumed operations and cargo handling, according to the official news agency IRNA.
Point of View
We at NationPress acknowledge the gravity of the situation in Iran following the catastrophic explosion at Shahid Rajaee Port. The loss of lives and injuries underscores the urgent need for stringent safety measures in critical infrastructure. While investigations are ongoing, it’s crucial to ensure accountability and enhance safety protocols to prevent such tragedies in the future.
NationPress
14/05/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the explosion at Shahid Rajaee Port?
The explosion is suspected to have been caused by improper storage of chemicals in containers, with negligence in safety protocols identified as a contributing factor.
What is the current death toll from the incident?
As of now, the death toll stands at 65, with over 1,200 individuals reported injured.
What actions are being taken in response to the explosion?
An investigation has been ordered by Supreme Leader Khamenei to uncover any negligence or intent behind the explosion, and several individuals have been summoned for questioning.
Is there a connection between the explosion and Iran's nuclear talks?
There is no indication of a connection between the explosion at the port and the ongoing nuclear talks with the US in Oman.
Have operations resumed at the port?
Yes, despite the incident, the port's wharfs have reportedly resumed operations and cargo handling.
