Capitals, March 19 (SANA) Military escalation between Iran on one side and the United States and Israel on the other has extended to energy infrastructure in Gulf Cooperation Council countries, raising concerns over global oil and gas supplies relied upon by international markets.
As attacks expanded to include Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia and Kuwait, fears grew that continued escalation could trigger a global energy crisis threatening economic stability.
In Qatar, the Ras Laffan Industrial City, the world’s largest liquefied natural gas production and export hub, was targeted in two consecutive Iranian strikes that caused significant damage to gas facilities. QatarEnergy said emergency teams contained the fires without casualties, while noting extensive infrastructure losses. Doha responded with diplomatic measures, including expelling Iranian military and security attachés, describing the attack as a violation of sovereignty and a threat to global energy security. Spokesperson for the Foreign Ministry of Qatar, Majed al-Ansari said targeting energy facilities constitutes a serious threat to global energy security and regional stability.
The United States warned of a strong response, with President Donald Trump stating that any renewed attack on Qatar would prompt unprecedented action targeting Iran’s South Pars gas field.
In the United Arab Emirates, air defenses intercepted drones targeting the Habshan gas facility and the Bab oil field, while Saudi defenses downed missiles and drones over Riyadh, the Eastern Province, Yanbu port and the SAMREF refinery. In Kuwait, limited fires broke out at Mina Abdullah and Mina al-Ahmadi refineries following drone attacks, with no casualties reported.
Global energy markets reacted sharply, amid concerns over supply disruptions and repeated Iranian threats to close the Strait of Hormuz, through which about 20 percent of global oil passes. European gas prices rose by 35 percent, while Brent crude increased by 10 percent to 119.13 dollars per barrel, and West Texas Intermediate reached 98.81 dollars.
The United Nations and the European Union expressed concern over targeting energy infrastructure, calling for respect for international law and the protection of vital facilities.
M.Q.R
