Iranian authorities announced that a preliminary investigation indicates that “failure to adhere to safety principles” at the Bandar Abbas port led to the deadly explosion last Saturday, in which at least 70 people were killed and more than 1,000 injured, according to a Reuters report this morning (Tuesday).
Containers with Chemicals Were Involved in the Incident
According to the report, surveillance footage shows a small fire breaking out between containers at the port, which quickly escalated into a massive explosion.
Officials said that containers holding chemical substances were involved in the incident, with some reports suggesting that the material that exploded was sodium perchlorate—a key ingredient in ballistic missile fuel.
Iranian Minister of the Interior Eskandar Momeni said that serious deficiencies were found at the port and that critical safety protocols had not been properly implemented.
According to official sources, no connection has been found between the explosion and any nearby military or security facilities.
Israel Denies Any Involvement
Meanwhile, a senior Israeli political source said yesterday, “There is no known Israeli connection to the incident at Bandar Abbas.” He added that conclusions should not be drawn prematurely.
