Explosion in Southern Iran Kills 18 as Chemical Cargo Sparks Fire

A powerful explosion and fire hit Shahid Rajaee Port in southern Iran on Saturday, killing 18 people and injuring around 800 others. Authorities believe a shipment of chemical material used for rocket fuel production may have triggered the blast.

Firefighters battled the blaze throughout the night using helicopters. The explosion happened on the same day Iranian and US officials met in Oman for talks on Tehran’s nuclear programme.

Iranian officials did not confirm whether it was a terrorist attack. However, Iran’s Foreign Minister said security services remained on high alert due to the risk of sabotage.

According to private security firm Ambrey, the port had received a shipment of rocket fuel chemicals from China in March. Ambrey reports that mishandling of these hazardous materials could have caused the explosion. Iranian authorities have not officially confirmed this.

Officials warned of dangerous air pollution in the area. Schools and offices in Bandar Abbas will remain closed on Sunday.