Southern Iran has been rocked by an enormous explosion, presumably caused by a chemical leak, that has resulted in the deaths of 40 and hundreds more injured.
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A fire initially broke out in the container area of Shahid Rajaei port in Iran. It quickly spread to an area containing explosive chemicals. According to AP news, it has been suggested that the chemical is one used in rocket propellant.
The explosion could be seen for miles and obliterated the surrounding cargo storage area. Initially, only 20 people were confirmed dead. However, as emergency services pulled people from the explosion area, many more have now been added to the death toll.
Around a thousand were wounded in the explosion, and many have succumbed to their injuries, bringing the current total deaths to 40. Firefighters and emergency services are still fighting the fire and pulling people from the wreckage.
Cause Of Massive Chemical Explosion Still Unclear
Although the cause of the explosion in Iran is still unclear, foul play has not been ruled out. A full investigation will not be able to be launched until the fire is completely under control. Helicopters continue to dump water on the burning chemical area.
Fatemeh Mohajeran, a government spokeswoman, talked to CNN about the situation. "So far, what has been determined is that containers were stored in a corner of the port that likely contained chemicals, which exploded. But until the fire is extinguished, it's hard to ascertain the cause."
But, there is already blame being placed for the explosion that took so many lives in Iran. Ambrey Intelligence, a private risk consultancy, has been quoted as saying the explosions occurred due to "improper handling of a shipment of solid fuel intended for use in Iranian ballistic missiles."
The port itself handles around 80% of the imports into Iran. As a result, the explosion is going to have a negative effect on the country's economy. People are preparing for a drop in resources, including food and other goods.
Until the fire is completely under control, neither the cause nor the full extent of the damage will be fully determined. Neighboring countries, including Russia, have been sending their condolences and aid.
