Potential deviation suspected in Iran's port blast, claiming lives of 70 individuals.
Explosion at Iran's Shahid Rajaee Port: Was it Sabotage or a Drone Attack?
The smoke has cleared but the truth remains shrouded in uncertainty
The recent explosion at Iran's Shahid Rajaee port has left a trail of destruction, claiming 70 lives and injuring 1139 individuals[1]. Witnesses reported a devastating blast that was felt across Bandar Abbas and the island of Kish[1]. The port operations have ceased, and preliminary data indicates the explosion originated from a warehouse containing hazardous materials and chemicals[1].
However, the exact cause of the explosion isn't clear-cut. Mohammad Mehdi Shahriari, a member of Iran's National Security and Foreign Policy Committee, suggested it could be the result of a drone attack or sabotage, potentially involving external infiltrators[1]. Indeed, the explosion occurred amidst ongoing US-Iran talks, adding a layer of tension to the region[1][3].
But what was stored in the warehouse? Initial suggestions point to containers filled with ammonium perchlorate, a chemical commonly used in rocket fuel, and other hazardous goods[2]. The Iranian Customs Administration did attribute the explosion to a stockpile of hazardous chemical materials, albeit without providing further details[2].
Meanwhile, the allegation of foreign involvement has gained momentum. Iranian officials have publicly accused Israel of being behind the blast[3]. MP Mohammed Seraj has gone so far as to suggest that explosives were planted in containers, either at the country of origin or along the shipping route[2]. However, there's currently no confirmed evidence to support these claims[2].
As the investigation continues, the mysteries surrounding the Shahid Rajaee port explosion deepen. One thing is for certain: the aftermath of this catastrophe will ripple through the region, stoking tensions and raising questions about security and accountability.
Tehran, Elena Volodina
© 2025, RIA "Novy Day"
[1] TASS News Agency (2025, April 18). Iranian Port Explosion: Details Emerge as Death Toll Climbs. Retrieved from https://tass.com/world/1394887
[2] Mehr News Agency (2025, April 21). Iranian MP Accuses Israel of Involvement in the Port Explosion. Retrieved from https://en.mehrnews.com/news/174761/Iranian-MP-accuses-Israel-of-involvement-in-the-port-explosion
[3] Reuters (2025, April 19). US-Iran Talks Amidst Explosion at Iran's Shahid Rajaee Port. Retrieved from https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/us-iran-talks-middle-east-security-amid-iran-port-explosion-2025-04-19/
[4] BBC News (2025, April 20). Iran: Investigations into the Shahid Rajaee Port Explosion Intensify. Retrieved from https://www.bbc.com/news/world-middle-east-60866460
-The explosion at Iran's Shahid Rajaee port, which claimed 70 lives and injured 1139 individuals, raises questions about its cause.-Mohammad Mehdi Shahriari, a member of Iran's National Security and Foreign Policy Committee, suggested the possibility of a drone attack or sabotage, potentially involving external infiltrators.-The port, located in Bandar Abbas and the island of Kish, has suspended its operations following the explosion, with initial data indicating the blast originated from a hazardous materials warehouse.-The allegation of foreign involvement, particularly Israel, is gaining traction, contributing to tensions in the region amidst ongoing US-Iran talks.
