Tehran, Iran – April 28, 2025 – The Shipping Association of Iran has issued an urgent appeal to international shipping partners following a devastating explosion and fire at Shahid Rajaee Port on April 26, 2025. The incident, which occurred in the port’s container yard, led to a temporary suspension of operations and caused extensive damage, severely impacting port facilities, shipping companies, and Iranian merchants.

In a formal letter dated April 28, 2025 (Ref: 2000/04/253), addressed to container lines and NVOCCs providing services to Iran, the association detailed the crisis and requested immediate support to mitigate losses. The full text of the letter, signed by Secretary General Dr. Masoud Polmeh, is as follows:

Shipping Association of Iran
(since 1953)
Ref: 2000/04/253
Date: 4/28/2025

To: Container Lines and NVOCCs whom provide services to the Islamic Republic of Iran
Subject: Notification of Incident at Shahid Rajaee Port and Request for Assistance

Greetings,

We hereby respectfully inform you that on April 26, 2025, an explosion and subsequent fire occurred in a part of the container yard at Shahid Rajaee Port, resulting in the suspension of the port’s operations. Although the commercial activities have partially resumed today, they are proceeding slowly and with significant delays. Regrettably, the extent of the damages has far exceeded initial expectations, severely impacting port yards, shipping companies, and numerous Iranian merchants and traders.

In light of these circumstances, we earnestly request all our esteemed international shipping partners to extend their understanding of the situation in Iran and to make every possible effort to mitigate the losses. Accordingly, we kindly seek your cooperation on the following:
a) Possibly, grant an extension of 30 days to the originally agreed free time period.
b) In addition to the extension of free time, apply a waiver or discount on demurrage charges if incurred, as it was a great loss for merchants.

Your understanding and prompt support in this matter would be deeply appreciated.

Respectfully,
Dr. Masoud Polmeh
Secretary General
No.30, Daneshkian Alley, Vali Asr Sq., Tehran, Iran P.O. Box 1415845171
Tel.: +982188947656 & +982188947646-9, Fax: +982188905604