A devastating explosion at Iran’s Shahid Rajaee port in Bandar Abbas on April 26, 2025, has resulted in at least 40 deaths and over 1,200 injuries. The blast, which occurred around midday, originated from several containers in the port’s wharf area, possibly containing hazardous materials such as ammonium perchlorate, a chemical used in missile propellants. The explosion produced a large fire and a plume of black smoke visible for kilometers, causing structural damage to buildings several kilometers away and prompting the closure of schools and offices in the area.
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian visited the injured and ordered a thorough investigation into the cause of the blast. Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei also called for a comprehensive probe to determine if negligence or sabotage played a role. While the exact cause remains under investigation, authorities suspect that improperly stored chemicals may have fueled the explosion.
The Iranian government has declared a day of national mourning, and emergency services continue to work on fully extinguishing the fire. Russia has dispatched emergency aid, including specialist firefighters, to assist Iran in the aftermath.
