TEHRAN, Iran (AP) – A significant explosion accompanied by a fire occurred in the Iranian port city of Bandar Abbas on Saturday, as confirmed by local officials. The incident has raised concerns regarding the safety measures in place at one of the country’s crucial maritime hubs.

Mehrdad Hasanzadeh, a provincial disaster management official, spoke to Iranian state television about the event, noting that there were injuries reported as a result of the blast, though he did not provide specific details regarding the extent or nature of those injuries. He indicated that first responders were actively working to reach the affected area while ongoing efforts were underway to evacuate the site of the explosion.

The source of the explosion was identified to be containers at Rajaei port, which is a significant cargo-handling center in Bandar Abbas. This port, which plays a vital role in Iran's trade, primarily manages container traffic but also includes oil tanks and other petrochemical facilities. The presence of these industries likely contributed to the severity of the explosion and the ensuing fire, drawing immediate concern from authorities and the public alike.

Visuals circulating on social media depict a colossal plume of black smoke rising from the port area, eliciting alarm among both residents and viewers around the world. The scale of the explosion has led many to speculate on the potential implications for safety protocols in such critical infrastructures, especially in light of the ongoing tensions and critical economic conditions faced by Iran.

As emergency services continue their response efforts, the situation remains fluid. Local media outlets and social platforms are closely monitoring developments, as the aftermath of such incidents can have far-reaching impacts not only on the local community but also on larger supply chain operations within the region.