Gulf nations on alert as Iran attacks energy facilities following Israeli strike
Tehran’s retaliation against Israel has escalated the conflict, targeting key energy infrastructure across the Gulf and raising fears of a broader regional war. On Thursday, Iran launched ballistic missiles at Qatar’s Ras Laffan LNG facility, causing fires and extensive damage. No injuries were reported, but the attack has heightened concerns over global energy supply.
The strikes come after Israel attacked Iran’s South Pars gasfield and killed Iranian Intelligence Minister Esmail Khatib. In response, Iran has also targeted energy facilities in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Bahrain, marking a dangerous escalation.
US President Donald Trump warned Iran on social media, threatening to “massively blow up the entirety” of South Pars if attacks on Qatar continue. However, he emphasized that the US was not involved in Israel’s strike, describing it as a “violent lash-out” by its Middle East ally.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has engaged in diplomatic talks with Turkey, Egypt, and Pakistan, urging regional coordination against what he called US-Israel military aggression. Meanwhile, Qatar declared Iran’s security and military personnel “persona non grata” and demanded their departure within 24 hours.
Saudi Arabia intercepted multiple ballistic missiles targeting Riyadh and thwarted drone attacks on its eastern gas facilities, while UAE reported damage to the Habshan gas facilities and Bab oilfield.
With tensions rising, Gulf nations face a critical decision: whether to retaliate militarily against Iran or pursue diplomatic measures. Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud warned that while they “reserve the right to take military actions, if deemed necessary,” any escalation could have significant political and moral consequences.
The unfolding situation underscores the fragile security of the Gulf region and the high stakes for energy markets worldwide.
Source: Al Jazeera