South Africa communicated the pacity to the government and Iranian people through the Bureau of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) after the explosion at Shahid Rajay port in Bandar Abbas, southern Iran.
The department said the explosion caused more than 40 deaths and more than 1,000 people were seriously injured.
CNN reported that eyewitness accounts indicate that some chemicals in the shipping container will ignite, leading to a much larger explosion.
Recent reports show that deaths have risen significantly, with one official informing Iranian state media on Monday that at least 70 people died.
“South Africa expresses sincere sadness to families who have lost their loved ones and are hoping for a quick recovery to those injured, including people from various other countries.
“We praise the efforts of our emergency response teams and volunteers who are tirelessly working to provide relief and support to those in need, and we praise the government for providing prompt support.
“We are in solidarity with the government and the people of Iran in the aftermath of this tragic accident,” the department said.
