Accidental blast at Iranian arms depot kills 15

The explosion occurred as munitions were being transported.

AN ACCIDENTAL EXPLOSION at a Revolutionary Guard ammunition depot west of Tehran killed at least 15 people today, officials said.

The explosions occurred when military personnel were transporting munitions at a base, said Guard spokesman Ramazan Sharif. The base is located outside Bidganeh village, 40 kilometres southwest of the capital.

The Guard is Iran’s most powerful military force.

“My colleagues at the Guard were transporting ammunition at one of the depots at the site when an explosion occurred as a result of an accident,” Sharif said.

At least 15 people were killed, state TV reported. The semi-official ISNA news agency said 10 people were injured and hospitalized. Sharif said some of those injured were in critical condition.

Making a difference

A mix of advertising and supporting contributions helps keep paywalls away from valuable information like this article. Over 5,000 readers like you have already stepped up and support us with a monthly payment or a once-off donation.

For the price of one cup of coffee each week you can make sure we can keep reliable, meaningful news open to everyone regardless of their ability to pay.

Support us Learn More