**Iran Investigates Port Explosion Amid Rising Casualty Toll**

The explosion at Shahid Rajaee port in Bandar Abbas, attributed to safety lapses, has resulted in numerous casualties and extensive damage, prompting an ongoing investigation.**

Iran’s interior minister has attributed the catastrophic explosion at Shahid Rajaee port in Bandar Abbas to negligence, with the death toll now reaching at least 70. Eskandar Momeni stated that Saturday’s incident was partially due to "shortcomings, including noncompliance with safety precautions and negligence." Over 1,000 individuals were injured, as emergency responders battled flames that persisted for days following the blast.

Authorities confirmed that a fire ignited and led to the explosion of imported cargo. While there were speculations about the nature of the cargo involved, Iran's defense ministry refuted claims that the incident was linked to missile fuel chemicals. They accused certain foreign media outlets of disseminating misinformation.

In the aftermath, the crisis management director for Hormozgan, Mehrdad Hassanzadeh, reported that firefighting efforts were nearing completion. However, Hormozgan's Governor, Mohammad Ashouri Taziani, indicated that full operations at the port could take one to two weeks to normalize, as around 1,500 hectares of land were severely impacted.

The Customs Administration revealed that the cargo which triggered the explosion had not been previously registered. Sina Marine and Port Services Development Company, managing the docked area, faced criticism for a "catastrophic error involving false declarations." Independent analysis suggested possible ties to a shipment of sodium perchlorate, potentially mishandled, although military officials maintained that no hazardous materials were present for military purposes.

The situation continues to unfold as officials work to assess the full extent of the damage and health impact of this tragic incident.