Site editor
A huge explosion, “Rajai Port”, the largest commercial port in Iran, shook this morning, leaving 8 dead and more than 750 injured, and caused severe material damage that led to the suspension of the port operations indefinitely.
The Iranian authorities reported that the explosion was caused by containers containing dangerous chemicals, while the hypothesis of terrorist act was excluded, while Israel denied any link to the incident.
Rajai port is located 14.5 km west of Bandar Abbas, on the northern beaches of the Strait of Hormuz, one of the most important marine corridors in the world, through which more than 70% of Iranian goods pass through it, making it the main economic artery of the country.
Thanks to its strategic location, the port is a pivotal point in regional trade and a special economic zone, and also enhances Iranian maritime influence under its relative proximity to Yemen (2000 km marine), which gives it geopolitical importance in the equations of conflict in the region.
The explosion caused a complete disruption of export and navigation in the port, which threatens great economic repercussions on Iran, which depends on the port as a major gateway to its foreign trade and oil exports.
The Iranian Customs Corporation issued a statement announcing the suspension of all activities until further notice, while the authorities are conducting an urgent investigation to determine the causes of the accident.
The disaster comes at a sensitive timing, in conjunction with the third round of indirect negotiations between Iran and the United States in Muscat, raising questions about the impact of the accident on regional and international dynamics.
The port is part of tension equations with the West, as Iran plays a role in securing indirect supply routes through the Strait of Hormuz.
Reports indicate that the local response to the accident was slow, as chaos continued for hours, which reflects challenges in crisis management.
With the anticipation of operations for a long time, the Iranian economy faces additional pressure in light of international sanctions and regional tensions.
The attention remains towards the ongoing investigations, amid speculation about whether the accident was accidental or as a result of a sabotage action, especially with the strategic importance of the port in supporting the Iranian economy and Tehran’s maritime influence.
