Explosive Tragedy at Iran's Largest Port Amid Nuclear Negotiations

A massive explosion at Iran's Bandar Abbas port, likely caused by chemical materials, killed at least 18 people and injured over 700. The blast occurred during U.S.-Iran nuclear talks but seems unrelated. Poor storage of chemicals is being blamed, and an investigation is underway.

An explosion rocked Iran's Bandar Abbas port, killing at least 18 people and injuring more than 700, according to Iranian state media. The incident unfolded at Iran's largest port, Shahid Rajaee, as nuclear talks with the United States were ongoing in Oman, though no connection between the events has been established.

Iranian crisis management spokesperson Hossein Zafari attributed the blast to poorly stored chemicals in containers. Zafari indicated previous warnings had been issued about the potential danger at the port. President Masoud Pezeshkian has called for an investigation while emergency efforts focus on controlling the blaze and damage.

The explosion, which triggered widespread devastation and sent a black and orange smoke plume across the region, underscores a pattern of deadly industrial incidents in Iran largely attributed to negligence. As the investigation proceeds, Israel's involvement remains unconfirmed amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.

(With inputs from agencies.)