Iran’s Largest Port Crippled: Over Half of National Trade Halted as Death Toll Rises

Bandar Abbas – More than half of Iran’s port operations remain paralyzed following the catastrophic explosion at Shahid Rajaei port in Bandar Abbas, with government figures confirming a 57% shutdown in the country’s loading and unloading capacity.

The blast, which tore through Iran’s largest container port on Saturday, has inflicted severe damage to vital infrastructure, throwing the nation’s trade and supply chain into turmoil. Though customs officials claim that limited transit and customs activities have resumed, full-scale operations are on hold until the massive fire is fully extinguished — a process expected to take weeks.

Interior Minister Eskandar Momeni said by Sunday afternoon that roughly 80% of firefighting operations had been completed. Still, cleanup and containment efforts continue amid fears of wider environmental damage.

The human toll is staggering. At least 28 people have been confirmed dead, and over 1,000 have been injured — many with critical burns, head trauma, and psychological shock. Hospitals across the region are overwhelmed.

In response to escalating health concerns, the Ministry of Health has declared a state of emergency in Bandar Abbas. Toxic smoke and the looming threat of chemical contamination have forced authorities to shut down all schools, universities, and government offices in the city.

The incident has not only paralyzed a key economic hub but also triggered growing questions about safety protocols and accountability at one of the country’s most strategic transport arteries.