Iran intensifies ‘dangerous escalation’ on Gulf energy facilities after Israel hits gas field

WorldPolitics
19 Mar 2026 • 2:28 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

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  • Iran escalated attacks on energy infrastructure in Gulf Arab nations, including Qatar and the UAE, following an Israeli strike on its main natural gas field, South Pars.
  • Qatari liquefied natural gas (LNG) facilities sustained significant damage and fires, potentially delaying future energy supplies to global markets.
  • The United Arab Emirates was forced to shut down its Habshan gas facility and Bab field after Iranian overnight attacks, which authorities called a "dangerous escalation".
  • Attacks also targeted shipping, with a vessel burning off the UAE coast and another damaged near Qatar, underscoring risks in the Strait of Hormuz and contributing to a 50% rise in Brent crude oil prices.
  • Gulf states condemned Iran's actions, while Donald Trump warned of US retaliation if attacks on Qatar's energy infrastructure continued, despite expressing reluctance for further violence.

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