An airstrike has struck South Pars Gas Field, the world’s largest natural gas reserve, sharply escalating tensions in the Middle East and raising concerns over global energy security.
Iranian state media reported explosions at the site, attributing the incident to an Israeli attack on the facility, which produces approximately three-quarters of Iran’s domestic gas supply.
The field, shared with Qatar as part of its North Field extension, is a cornerstone of regional and global energy infrastructure.
Qatar swiftly condemned the strike, with Foreign Ministry spokesman Majed Al Ansari describing the action as “reckless” and warning it represents a dangerous escalation amid ongoing regional hostilities.
Iran issued strong warnings of retaliation, signaling the potential expansion of the conflict to energy infrastructure across the Gulf.
In a statement, the Iranian military warned that any attacks on its energy assets would prompt a “powerful counterattack,” adding that it considers retaliatory strikes on the aggressor’s infrastructure to be legitimate.
The Israeli military confirmed it had also conducted strikes on fuel-related infrastructure in southern Lebanon linked to Hezbollah, an Iran-backed armed group.
In a further escalation, Iran issued evacuation warnings for major oil and gas installations across the Gulf, including facilities in Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Qatar, cautioning they could become targets “in the coming hours.”
Global energy markets reacted immediately, with oil prices rising approximately five percent to $108 per barrel amid fears of supply disruptions, particularly through the strategically critical Strait of Hormuz, which accounts for roughly one-fifth of global oil exports.
Separately, the International Atomic Energy Agency confirmed that a projectile struck the premises of the Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant, Iran’s only operational nuclear power station.
The agency reported no damage to the facility and no injuries. Director General Rafael Grossi called for restraint to avoid the risk of a nuclear incident.
The situation is further complicated by reports that Donald Trump has authorized strikes on Iranian missile infrastructure aimed at countering threats to key shipping routes in the region.
With tensions mounting and threats expanding to critical energy and nuclear infrastructure, analysts warn the unfolding conflict could have far-reaching implications for global energy markets and regional stability.
