Massive explosion hits refinery in eastern Iran

TEHRAN: A massive explosion has rocked a hydrocarbon refinery in eastern Iran’s Birjand special economic zone, with the fire engulfing all 18 reservoirs in the refinery, Iranian media reported.

“The fire has spread to all 18 reservoirs of the Birjand economic special zone’s refinery, and the intensity of the flames has increased,” Governor Ali Fazeli told Islamic Republic News Agency (IRNA) on Sunday.

He further said that three of the reservoirs had already exploded, and the fire had reached all the remaining storage units.

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Due to the constant threat of further explosions, rescue teams have temporarily withdrawn from the scene.

No casualties were reported.

In a telephone conversation with the governor of South Khorasan province, Interior Minister Ahmad Vahidi inquired about the latest developments in the refinery.

Governor Javad Ghana’at briefed the minister on the ongoing crisis management efforts undertaken by emergency services and executive authorities.