Massive Blast at Iran Port Leaves 25 Dead, 1,000 Injured

On Saturday, April 26, 2025, a devastating explosion occurred at Iran’s Shahid Rajaee Port in Bandar Abbas, resulting in at least 25 fatalities and injuring over 1,000 individuals. The blast originated from a fire in a hazardous materials storage area, leading to the detonation of several containers.

Among the chemicals involved was sodium perchlorate, a compound used in missile fuel. The explosion caused significant structural damage, with the shockwave felt up to 50 kilometers away. Emergency services responded promptly, employing helicopters to combat the ensuing fires.

President Masoud Pezeshkian has ordered a thorough investigation into the incident. The port, a critical hub handling approximately 80 million tons of cargo annually, has suspended operations, impacting Iran’s trade activities. This event coincided with ongoing nuclear discussions between Iran and the United States in Oman, adding complexity to regional dynamics.