TEHRAN, April 28 — Iranian Interior Minister Eskandar Momeni has confirmed that negligence was the primary cause of the devastating explosion at Shahid Rajaee Port in Bandar Abbas, located on the Persian Gulf coast. The blast, which occurred on April 26, has left nearly 1,400 people injured, with authorities still assessing the full extent of the damage.
Momeni stated that “necessary precautions” were not taken at the port, leading to the tragic incident. A special commission has been established to investigate the explosion, and proceedings are ongoing. He further revealed that suspects have already been summoned to court, as officials work to determine accountability.
The explosion, which rocked Iran’s largest commercial port, resulted in widespread destruction and prompted an immediate emergency response. Iranian state media reported that firefighters and rescue teams have been working tirelessly to contain the blaze, with heavy smoke still billowing over the site.
Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has ordered a comprehensive probe into the incident, instructing security and judicial officials to uncover any negligence or intent behind the explosion. Meanwhile, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian visited hospitals in Bandar Abbas, meeting with victims and assessing the ongoing relief efforts.
In response to the crisis, Russian President Vladimir Putin has dispatched specialist emergency teams to assist Iran. The Russian Embassy in Tehran confirmed that Russian rescuers arrived on two Be-200ES aircraft and one IL-76TD, immediately coordinating with Iranian rescue services to outline a plan of action and begin fire suppression efforts.
Authorities have closed schools and offices in the affected area, urging residents to stay indoors and wear protective masks due to the hazardous smoke and air pollution. The Iranian Defense Ministry has denied speculation that the explosion was linked to military fuel or missile components, stating that no such materials were stored at the site.
As investigations continue, Iranian officials are working to assess the full impact of the disaster and implement stricter safety measures to prevent future incidents.
