Doha | March 19, 2026: A missile attack by Iran on Ras Laffan Industrial City in Qatar, home to the world’s largest LNG export facility, has raised serious concerns across global energy markets and heightened tensions in the Gulf region.
According to reports, five missiles were launched, of which four were intercepted by Qatar’s air defense systems, while one struck the LNG facility, causing a fire. Authorities confirmed that the blaze was brought under control and workers had been safely evacuated in advance.
Qatar strongly condemned the attack, calling it a violation of its sovereignty, and ordered Iranian diplomatic personnel, including military and security attachés, to leave the country within 24 hours. They were declared persona non grata in a rare diplomatic move.
The escalation appears to be spreading across the region, with reports of attempted strikes on energy infrastructure in the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia.
Global oil markets reacted sharply, with Brent crude prices surging above $111 per barrel. Analysts warn that any disruption to Qatar’s LNG supply — which accounts for a significant share of global exports — could impact power generation and industrial output in Asia and Europe.
The latest developments underline growing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, posing a serious threat to global energy security.
