The death toll from a powerful explosion at Iran's biggest port has risen to at least 40, with more than 1,200 people injured, state media reported on Sunday.

The death toll from a major explosion in Iran's most important container port of Bandar Abbas rose to at least 65, with over 1,200 injured, state media said on Monday, as firefighters battled a blaze that Iranian officials said was now under control 48 hours after the start of the fire.

Iran says 'initial assessment' for explosion, fire, at Bandar Abbas port indicates mishandling of dangerous chemicals.