Iran's state-run television has announced that a major explosion that ripped through a southern Iranian port on Saturday has left at least 46 people dead and more than a thousand injured.



The explosion occurred in the southern port city of Bandar Abbas. The blast caused nearby buildings to collapse and cargo to go up in flames.



The Iranian government says the blast was likely caused by chemicals inside a container, but the details are still unknown.



Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on Sunday ordered a thorough investigation into the explosion.



In a statement, he said security and judicial officials are obliged to thoroughly investigate the matter, uncover any negligence or intent, and pursue it in accordance with the regulations.



Multiple Western media have reported the fire was a result of improper handling of a shipment of solid fuel intended for use in Iranian ballistic missiles.



But Iran's defense ministry has denied the reports.
A spokesperson announced there were no military-related cargoes at the port.



Meanwhile, Israeli media quoted officials as saying Israel was "not behind" the Iranian port explosion.