Five people have been killed in two separate explosions in Iran that local officials and state media have linked to gas leaks. The first explosion claimed one life and injured 14 others at a residential building in Bandar Abbas, a southern city along the Gulf coast. A local official revealed that a blast ripped through an eight-story structure, reportedly destroying two floors and damaging several vehicles and shops.
In a second, unrelated incident in Ahvaz, a city in southwestern Iran, four people lost their lives. Both incidents are currently under investigation, with preliminary assessments suggesting that gas leaks were responsible.
The explosions come at a time of heightened tensions in the region, particularly following a significant build-up of U.S. military forces in the Gulf and ongoing pressure on Tehran over its nuclear program. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian reiterated that conflict benefits no one, stating that Iran does not seek war.
In a simultaneous development, reports emerged regarding ongoing negotiations, with U.S. President Donald Trump acknowledging talks between Iran and Washington. Trump's administration has been vocal about its stance on Iran's nuclear activities and human rights issues, weighing its options carefully as the situation evolves.
Meanwhile, Iranian officials have communicated a desire to engage in dialogue with the U.S. under terms of mutual respect, though they firmly stated that their missile defense system is not subject to negotiation. Recent discussions among Iranian leadership highlight a commitment to de-escalate regional tensions amid tragic domestic events.
