World ( The cow news digital ) A deadly explosion occurred in northern Iran during a bomb disposal operation, resulting in the deaths of 14 members of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), according to state-linked reports.
The incident took place near the city of Zanjan, northwest of Tehran, where specialized teams were engaged in clearing unexploded ordnance left behind after recent military conflict. Authorities stated that the operation was part of a broader effort to remove hazardous explosives from populated and strategic areas following the end of hostilities.
According to Iranian media reports, the unexploded devices were believed to include cluster munitions and aerial bombs that had failed to detonate during earlier strikes. These remnants of war were reportedly dropped during clashes involving the United States and Israel, although they had remained inactive until recovery operations began.
While teams were working to safely neutralize and remove the ordnance, a sudden detonation occurred, causing a powerful blast that killed all 14 IRGC personnel on site. Emergency response units were immediately dispatched to the area, and the site was sealed off for investigation.
A report by the Iran-linked news outlet Nour News confirmed that the deceased personnel were members of the IRGC and were actively participating in a demining and clearance mission at the time of the explosion. Authorities have not yet released the identities of the victims.
Military experts note that unexploded ordnance poses a long-term threat in post-conflict zones, particularly when it involves cluster bombs or aerial mines. Such devices are often unstable and can detonate unexpectedly during handling or environmental disturbance.
The Iranian government has launched an inquiry into the incident to determine the exact cause of the secondary explosion and assess whether additional safety protocols are required for ongoing clearance operations.
The blast is being described as one of the most significant single incidents involving Iranian security forces since the recent ceasefire between Iran and the United States took effect in early April. Officials have warned that despite the cessation of active conflict, remnants of war continue to pose serious risks to both military personnel and civilians.
Further updates are expected as investigations continue and clearance operations resume under revised safety measures.
