Iran Calls for Investigation into Bandar Abbas Port Blast Killing 40

Ayatollah Khamenei expressed deep sorrow over the deadly explosion at Shahid Rajaee Port in Bandar Abbas, which killed at least 40 people and injured more than 900. He called for a comprehensive investigation by security and judicial authorities to determine whether negligence or deliberate action contributed to the tragedy and instructed that any wrongdoing be prosecuted according to the law. The Leader also highlighted the responsibility of all officials to implement measures that prevent such disasters in the future and thanked citizens who donated blood for the injured. President Masoud Pezeshkian visited the site to oversee emergency efforts and pledged support for victims' families and survivors. Meanwhile, local authorities closed schools and offices in Bandar Abbas due to hazardous smoke and air pollution, and international assistance, including Russian specialists, was mobilized to help contain the fire. The cause of the explosion remains under investigation, with officials denying military-related materials were involved.