Deadly Explosion at Iran’s Shahid Rajaee Port: 18 Killed, 800 Injured Amid Ongoing Dubai Trade Links
In a devastating incident that could impact regional shipping and Dubai-Iran trade relations, a massive explosion and fire at Iran’s critical Shahid Rajaee Port has resulted in 18 deaths and over 800 injuries, Iranian state television reported on Sunday. This updated death toll rose from an initial figure of 14 casualties.
Port Explosion in Iran: Fire Under Control but Not Fully Extinguished
According to live coverage from Iranian state TV, thick black smoke continued to rise over the Shahid Rajaee Port, located near the vital Strait of Hormuz — a key maritime route connecting Iran, Dubai, and international markets. Although the fire was reported to be “under control,” officials confirmed that firefighting operations are still ongoing to fully extinguish the flames.
Chemical Storage Cited in Shahid Rajaee Blast
Hossein Zafari, a spokesperson for Iran’s Crisis Management Organization, attributed the explosion to poorly stored chemicals inside shipping containers at the Shahid Rajaee container terminal. Zafari noted that previous warnings had been issued regarding the potential dangers at the port.
However, a government spokesperson emphasized that while chemicals likely contributed to the blast, a full investigation is needed to determine the exact cause. Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian has ordered an immediate inquiry and dispatched the Interior Minister to oversee emergency operations at the site.
Impact on Trade Between Iran and Dubai
Shahid Rajaee Port is Iran’s largest container port and a critical gateway for goods traveling through the Strait of Hormuz — a route heavily linked to Dubai’s thriving logistics and shipping sectors. The disruption could temporarily affect cargo movement between Dubai and Iran, which maintain strong commercial ties despite geopolitical tensions.
Following the explosion, port operations were suspended, and customs authorities began evacuating trucks from the affected areas. Officials confirmed that the containers involved likely stored “dangerous goods and chemicals.”
Eyewitness Accounts and Media Coverage
Iranian media broadcast dramatic footage of a towering black and orange cloud engulfing the sky, shattered office buildings, and widespread debris across the port. Reports also indicated that the blast’s shockwaves shattered windows several kilometers away and were felt as far as Qeshm Island, approximately 26 kilometers south of the port.
The semi-official Tasnim News Agency showed scenes of injured workers receiving first aid on the roadside amidst chaotic conditions.
Potential Fallout for Iran and Dubai’s Shipping Sector
Given Shahid Rajaee’s strategic importance and its proximity to Dubai’s Jebel Ali Port — one of the world’s busiest — analysts are monitoring the situation closely for any ripple effects on shipping routes and trade logistics between Iran and Dubai.
As the investigation unfolds, Dubai’s trading community and shipping companies with Iranian ties are expected to assess the impact of this tragic incident on regional supply chains.
Stay connected with our blog for more updates on Middle East trade, Iran-Dubai relations, and regional maritime news.
