Two separate explosions in Iran on Saturday killed at least five people and injured dozens, officials said, as tensions in the region escalated. The blasts occurred in Bandar Abbas, a southern port city, and Ahvaz, a city in southwestern Iran. Iranian authorities attributed the explosions to gas leaks, though the cause remains under investigation.
Immediate Action & Core Facts
In Bandar Abbas, an eight-story residential building on Moallem Boulevard was severely damaged, killing one person and injuring 14, according to state media. Footage showed the building's facade blown out, with debris scattered around. Another explosion in Ahvaz killed a family of four, including a 4-year-old girl, and injured others, local reports said.
Deeper Dive & Context
Official Statements and Investigations
Iranian officials, including the fire chiefs of both cities, claimed the explosions were caused by gas leaks. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) denied reports that its navy commander, Alireza Tangsiri, was assassinated or that its naval base in Bandar Abbas was targeted. The IRGC stated that no drone attack occurred at its headquarters in Hormozgan.
Regional Tensions and U.S. Response
The explosions come amid heightened tensions in the region. The U.S. military has warned Iran against unsafe behavior near U.S. forces or commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, a key shipping lane. Iran is set to conduct naval drills in the strait on Sunday and Monday, with joint exercises involving Iran, Russia, and China planned for late February.
Political Context
President Donald Trump has threatened military action against Iran over its crackdown on protests and its nuclear program. Iran insists its nuclear activities are peaceful and has denied accusations of seeking nuclear weapons. The country's foreign minister said its missile defense system would never be subject to negotiations.
Media and Social Media Reports
Some reports suggested the explosions may have targeted Iran's navy, given the IRGC's main naval base is in Bandar Abbas. However, the IRGC denied these claims. Social media footage showed a security force member being carried out on a stretcher, though the IRGC did not acknowledge the incident.