Iranian port explosion death toll reaches 46

The death toll from a huge explosion that ripped through Iran’s southern Shahid Rajaei Port on April 26 has risen to 46, the country’s Minister of Interior Eskandar Momeni has announced.

He said that as of April 28, 46 people have been confirmed dead in the catastrophic blast at the commercial port south of Iran, Caliber.Az reports, citing Iranian media.

The minister noted that medical teams are using forensic techniques and DNA testing to identify the bodies.

A catastrophic explosion occurred on April 26, 2025, at Iran's Shahid Rajaee Port near Bandar Abbas in Hormozgan province. The blast resulted in over 1,200 injuries, with some reports indicating the toll may be higher. The explosion originated from several containers in the port's wharf area, possibly containing hazardous materials or chemicals.

The blast produced a large fire and a plume of black smoke visible for kilometres, causing significant structural damage and affecting port operations.

The Iranian administration has declared a public day of mourning on April 28 and expressed solidarity with the families of the victims.

Russia has dispatched emergency aid, including planes and specialist firefighters, to assist Iran in the aftermath of the explosion. The incident has drawn comparisons to the 2020 Beirut port explosion, raising safety concerns in industrial practices.​

By Khagan Isayev