Good evening, and welcome to wca world news. We begin tonight with a tragic story from Iran, where a devastating explosion has claimed dozens of lives at a coal mine in the country's east."
"At least 51 people have been confirmed dead and 20 others injured after a powerful methane explosion ripped through a coal mine near the city of Tabas, in eastern Iran. The explosion occurred late Saturday night, leaving a scene of destruction as emergency teams rushed to save those still trapped underground."
"Rescue teams, including paramedics, firefighters, and even helicopters, arrived at the site immediately. Many victims were pulled from the entrance of the mine covered in thick black soot, with rescuers racing against time to reach the workers trapped hundreds of meters below the surface."
"The blast occurred in a mine located in South Khorasan Province, near Tabas. It's believed that over 70 miners were working when the explosion struck. Officials fear the death toll will rise as rescuers struggle to navigate the mine, where toxic gases are hindering their efforts."
"Mohammad-Ali Akhondi, head of the provincial crisis management department, said that many miners are trapped approximately 700 meters diagonally beneath the surface, making rescue operations extremely dangerous and difficult."
"Despite these challenges, rescue teams are doing everything they can to save lives. The Iranian Red Crescent has also reported that gas accumulation inside the mine is complicating efforts to reach those still underground."
"Iran’s new reformist president, Masoud Pezeshkian, who is set to address the United Nations General Assembly this week, has expressed his sorrow over the incident. He has called for a thorough investigation, stating, 'I offer my heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and consider myself a partner in their grief.'"
"In response to the tragedy, authorities in South Khorasan have declared three days of mourning, as the country braces for the full impact of this catastrophe."
"Our thoughts are with the families of the victims and all those affected by this horrific accident. Stay tuned to wca world news for updates as this story continues to develop."
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