Deadly explosion rocks Southern Iran port, over 750 injured

At least eight people were killed and more than 750 injured in a powerful explosion on Saturday that ripped through a vital port in southern Iran, state media said.

State media reported the blast shattered windows, damaged buildings, and triggered a major fire. No deaths have been confirmed yet, but videos show injured victims lying on roads and reports of people trapped under rubble.

The blast occurred in the port’s container storage area around [add exact time if available]. Officials said several unsealed containers exploded, causing a fire that sent thick black smoke into the sky. Residents kilometers away heard the explosion, and nearby cars and offices were damaged.

Rescue teams rushed to evacuate workers and transfer the injured to hospitals. State TV warned the fire is still spreading, with photos showing flames engulfing parts of the port.

The number of injured rose sharply within hours. Over 500 people are now reported hurt, many with burns or injuries from broken glass and debris. Local hospitals are overwhelmed, and officials urged blood donations.

“We’re prioritizing rescuing those trapped under collapsed structures,” a crisis management official told state media.

Authorities blamed the explosion on “unsealed containers” but did not confirm what was inside. Speculation suggests chemicals or flammable materials may have ignited. The port’s customs office earlier warned the area stored “dangerous goods.”