A massive explosion at a port in southern Iran has killed at least 14 people and injured more than 700 others. The Iranian government says containers containing chemical materials were the probable source of the blast.



The explosion occurred at a port in Bandar Abbas on Saturday, damaging and collapsing buildings near the site.



Interior Minister Eskandar Momeni told Iran's state-run television that the death toll has reached 14, while around 750 people were injured.



President Masoud Pezeshkian issued a statement on Saturday expressing deep regret and sympathy for the victims. He said he ordered an investigation into the causes of the accident.



Strong winds are said to be fanning fires started by the explosion and firefighters are reportedly struggling to contain the blaze.



The government says the exact cause would not be known until the fire was fully extinguished.