Tehran: The ongoing conflict between Iran and Israel has sharply escalated, with major strikes targeting critical energy infrastructure across the Gulf region, raising fears of a wider economic fallout.
Authorities in Qatar confirmed that recent missile attacks caused significant damage to liquefied natural gas facilities, triggering large fires and disrupting operations. State-owned QatarEnergy said emergency crews were working to contain the blaze, adding that no casualties had been reported so far.
The development comes as Israel intensified its offensive against Iran, reportedly striking the South Pars gas field — the world’s largest natural gas reserve shared between Iran and Qatar. The attack marks a significant escalation, as energy infrastructure becomes a direct target in the conflict.
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian condemned the strike, warning that continued attacks on such strategic assets could spiral into consequences beyond the region. In retaliation, Tehran launched fresh strikes on energy installations across the Gulf, including facilities in Qatar and the United Arab Emirates.
Officials in the UAE confirmed that gas sites such as Habshan and Bab were targeted, calling the attacks a serious escalation. While interception systems reportedly prevented major damage, authorities temporarily halted operations as a precaution.
The exchange has rattled global energy markets, given the region’s central role in oil and gas supplies. Qatar, one of the world’s leading exporters of liquefied natural gas, had already scaled back production earlier in the conflict. Further damage could delay supply recovery even after hostilities subside.
Meanwhile, Donald Trump issued a stark warning, stating that the United States would respond forcefully if Iran launches additional attacks on Qatari infrastructure. He also indicated efforts were underway to prevent further Israeli strikes on key Iranian gas facilities, though he cautioned that retaliation would follow any renewed escalation.
As both sides continue to exchange attacks, concerns are mounting over the stability of global energy supplies and the risk of the conflict expanding further across the region.
