At least five people have been killed following two separate explosions in the Iranian cities of Ahvaz and Bandar Abbas, according to reports from international media outlets. Operative Information Center-OMM reports that an explosion caused by a gas leak in Ahvaz, located near the Iraqi border, resulted in the deaths of four individuals.
A second incident occurred at the strategic port of Bandar Abbas. Local officials confirmed that one person was killed and 14 others sustained various injuries in the blast. While investigations into the cause of the Bandar Abbas explosion are ongoing, social media reports suggested the target was a naval commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). However, the Tasnim news agency has dismissed these claims as false. Speaking to Reuters, two Israeli officials also denied any involvement in the incidents.
These developments come amid heightened regional tensions and a significant escalation in relations between Tehran and Washington. US President Donald Trump is reportedly considering various options regarding Iran and has deployed naval assets to the region. Meanwhile, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian accused leaders from the United States, Israel, and Europe of exploiting economic hardships to incite internal unrest within the country.
The port of Bandar Abbas, situated on the Strait of Hormuz, serves as one of Iran's most critical logistics and maritime hubs. The region has seen previous instability, including a massive explosion in April last year that resulted in dozens of fatalities and over 1,000 injuries. Iran is currently grappling with widespread protests driven by economic challenges; official sources told Reuters that nearly 5,000 people, including 500 security personnel, have been killed during the ongoing unrest.
