N. Prabhakaran Dubai: In a major escalation of the ongoing conflict, Iran has launched a series of drone and missile attacks against key oil...
N. Prabhakaran
Dubai: In a major escalation of the ongoing conflict, Iran has launched a series of drone and missile attacks against key oil and gas production centers in Saudi Arabia and Qatar. Following the strikes, Saudi Aramco temporarily shut down its Ras Tanura refinery. Simultaneously, QatarEnergy—one of the world’s leading natural gas producers—announced a halt in the production of Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) and associated products after drones struck facilities in Ras Laffan and Mesaieed.
The Qatari Ministry of Defense earlier confirmed that two drones struck energy hubs in the industrial cities of Ras Laffan and Mesaieed. Fortunately, no casualties were reported.
One drone targeted a water tank at a local power plant. A second drone hit an energy facility owned by QatarEnergy. Authorities are currently assessing the total extent of the damage, and an official statement is expected shortly.
The Situation in Saudi Arabia
The Saudi Ministry of Energy confirmed that a "limited fire" at the Aramco-controlled Ras Tanura refinery has been brought under control.
Two drones were intercepted and shot down in the vicinity of the refinery. While falling debris caused minor damage, civil defense teams extinguished the resulting fire immediately.
No injuries or fatalities occurred. Saudi Arabia has strongly condemned these "cowardly Iranian attacks" targeting the Riyadh region and the Eastern Province, noting that national defense systems successfully neutralized the primary threats.
Global Energy and Economic Impact
The attack on Ras Tanura, a critical global refining hub, has intensified fears of a major disruption in regional energy supplies.
Crude oil prices have surged to a four-year high. Due to severe supply concerns, Brent Crude has climbed to $80 per barrel.
Although Iran has not officially closed the Strait of Hormuz—which facilitates 20% of the world’s daily oil flow—many ship owners have suspended transit due to heightening security risks.
The regional situation deteriorated sharply on Saturday following missile strikes by the U.S. and Israel against various targets within Iran. In retaliation, Iran launched strikes against Israel, as well as U.S. military bases located in Saudi Arabia, Qatar, the UAE, Kuwait, and Bahrain.
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