A fresh wave of attacks has rocked the Middle East after Iran launched strikes on key energy infrastructure across the Gulf, escalating fears of a wider regional conflict.
Authorities in Kuwait confirmed that a drone strike hit the Mina Al-Ahmadi oil refinery, one of the largest in the region, sparking a fire and raising immediate concerns over energy security.
At the same time, a projectile struck a vessel off the coast of Qatar, while emergency crews battled flames at a major liquefied natural gas (LNG) facility following reported Iranian attacks.
Escalation after Israeli strike
The latest strikes come in response to an earlier Israeli attack on Iran’s South Pars gas field — the world’s largest natural gas reserve — marking a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict.
Iran had warned it would retaliate by targeting energy infrastructure across the Gulf, describing the move as part of a potential “full-scale economic war.”
Trump issues stark warning
Amid the growing crisis, former U.S. President Donald Trump issued a strong warning, stating that the United States would respond with overwhelming force if Iran continued its attacks.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump said he had no prior knowledge of Israel’s strike on South Pars but cautioned Tehran against further escalation.
“I do not want to authorise this level of violence and destruction,” he said, adding that he “will not hesitate” to act if necessary.
He also warned that the U.S. could unleash a response “with an amount of strength and power that Iran has never seen” if attacks on Gulf energy sites continue.
Explosions and disruptions across the region
Dramatic footage circulating online showed large explosions at Ras Laffan in Qatar, the world’s largest LNG facility, while reports also indicated impacts in Saudi Arabia’s capital, Riyadh.
In the United Arab Emirates, authorities suspended operations at the Habshan gas facility and the Bab oil field after debris from intercepted missiles fell across operational zones.
Global oil markets react
The escalating tensions have already sent shockwaves through global markets, with oil prices jumping 4% to $112 per barrel during early Asian trading.
Analysts warn that continued attacks on critical energy infrastructure could severely disrupt global supply chains and trigger further price surges.
Fears of wider conflict
The latest developments signal a dangerous turning point, with multiple countries now directly or indirectly impacted by the escalating hostilities.
With energy facilities increasingly becoming targets and major powers issuing threats, concerns are growing that the conflict could expand beyond its current scope.
As emergency responses continue across the Gulf, the international community is closely watching what could become one of the most significant geopolitical crises in recent years.
English (United States) ·