Iranian authorities have not disclosed the cause of the massive explosion at the port of Bandar Abbas on Saturday, which claimed the lives of at least 40 people. Reports suggest a chemical used in missile propellant may have been involved.
Eye-witnesses and videos indicate that a fire among shipping containers triggered a larger explosion. The death toll has risen sharply, with over 1,000 reported injured. Emergency workers are working to contain the blaze as investigations continue.
Surveillance footage shows a small fire escalating rapidly before the massive explosion. Efforts are underway to fully extinguish the blaze, with a large portion already contained. Iranian officials have denied any military material was present at the port.
President Masoud Pezeshkian has visited the site to oversee relief efforts and meet with the injured. Investigations are ongoing to determine the cause of the explosion, with speculation ranging from chemical mishaps to deliberate sabotage.
The blast has sparked concerns amidst high tensions in the Middle East, but no evidence of foul play has been confirmed. Experts are analyzing the footage and reports to piece together the events leading up to the tragic incident.