Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered to urgently dispatch several special aircraft from the Ministry of Emergency Situations (EMERCOM) to Iran to help extinguish the fire at Shahid Rajaee Port, the Russian Embassy in the Islamic Republic said.
According to the embassy, the decision was made in response to a request from Iranian partners. It was reported that the aircraft sent to Iran are staffed with experienced professionals.
"We wish our rescuers, together with their Iranian colleagues, success in containing the flames and saving this strategically important port for Iran's economy, as well as human lives," the statement said.
The Ministry of Emergency Situations (EMERCOM) clarified that, on Putin’s orders, Russian Emergency Minister Alexander Kurenkov ordered the dispatch of two planes to Bandar Abbas — a Be-200ChS amphibious aircraft and an Il-76.
A powerful explosion struck southern Iran on Saturday, April 26. According to preliminary reports, the blast occurred at a hazardous materials and chemicals warehouse. Sources claim a fuel tank exploded, leading to the collapse of one of the port buildings. The latest information indicates that 1,139 people were injured, and 25 fatalities have been confirmed.