Joint Statement Regarding the Catastrophic Explosion at Rajaee Port – Bandar Abbas

We, two Iranian human rights organizations based in Vienna, express our deep sorrow and outrage over the deadly explosion at the dock of Rajaee Port (Bandar Abbas), which has so far resulted in the deaths of more than 70 workers and injuries to hundreds of defenseless citizens. We condemn this atrocity, which constitutes a grave violation of human dignity, human rights, and fundamental labor rights, in the strongest possible terms.

This explosion, which occurred in late April 2025 at Iran’s largest commercial port, was not a natural accident. Rather, it was a direct consequence of systemic incompetence, entrenched corruption, disregard for workplace safety, and the repressive policies of the Islamic Republic of Iran. The Islamic Republic is the primary culprit, directly responsible for a catastrophe that once again endangers the lives and livelihoods of thousands of working-class families.

Workers and port staff at Rajaee Port, employed under precarious contracts, without effective insurance, and in the absence of any safety measures, risk their lives every day simply to survive.

This tragedy is a clear manifestation of violations of international labor law—especially the fundamental right to a safe working environment as emphasized in ILO conventions.

Worse than the incident itself is the regime’s response: attempts at cover-up, denial, threats against the media, and pressure on journalists and victims’ families. These actions constitute blatant violations of human rights, freedom of expression, and the principles of transparent governance. Silence, denial, and lack of accountability only deepen the wounds and pave the way for future disasters.

In this statement, we call upon all international human rights institutions—including the UN Human Rights Council, the International Labour Organization (ILO), global labor federations, democratic governments, and all independent labor unions worldwide—to:

• Condemn this tragedy unequivocally and demand an independent, transparent, and international investigation.
• Hold the Islamic Republic of Iran accountable for its violations of basic human and labor rights and its failure to protect the lives of its citizens.
• Provide legal, financial, and psychological support to the victims’ families and demand reparations from the Iranian government.
• Support independent and grassroots efforts to document, expose, and seek justice regarding this catastrophe.

Silencing workers, burying the truth under censorship and repression, and shifting blame to external actors is not an acceptable response to a disaster of this scale. We emphasize the urgent need for both national and international justice for the victims of Rajaee Port and warn: leaving this crime unpunished sends a green light for similar atrocities to be repeated.

With respect and solidarity for the grieving families and all those affected,

Dr. Behrouz Bayat
Komitee zur Verteidigung der Menschenrechte im Iran, Österreich

Prof. Dr. Siroos
MirzaeiMedical Professionals for Human Rights in Iran – Austria

Vienna – May 2 .2025