Tensions in the Middle East are quickly escalating after Iran launched ballistic missiles at Saudi Arabia and Qatar. Several explosions were reported in Riyadh and a massive fire broke out in a strategic industrial area in Qatar. Authorities speak of casualties and damage, while regional leaders warn of dire consequences.
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Four people were injured in the Saudi Arabian capital after fragments of an intercepted ballistic missile fell over the city, authorities said.
The Civil Defense stated that the danger alerts for Riyadh and Al-Kharj were later lifted. “Avoid gathering or filming, stay away from dangerous areas and report any risk“, the authorities sent in an official statement, quoted by the BBC.
Fire at Ras Laffan, after the attack on Qatar
In Qatar, the Ministry of Interior announced that the fire that broke out in the Ras Laffan industrial area has been extinguished and that no casualties have been reported.
According to the Ministry of Defense, Iran launched five missiles at the country during the day. Four were intercepted and one crashed in Ras Laffan, causing the fire.
The state energy company confirmed that the missiles hit Ras Laffan Industrial City, a key area for oil and gas processing. “Emergency response teams were immediately mobilized to contain the resulting fires as significant damage was causede,” QatarEnergy reported. The institution stated that all employees are safe and that there are no casualties.
The situation remains tense in the region. The liquefied natural gas refinery in Bahrain, considered a target of American interest, was reportedly targeted by missile attacks, which are still ongoing.
The facility is located near the bridge that connects Bahrain to Saudi Arabia, and initial reports indicate that the bridge was destroyed or severely damaged following an explosion at the refinery.
Qatar accuses Iran and threatens retaliation
Qatari authorities strongly condemned the attacks, which they described as “cynical”, stating that they represent “a direct threat to its national security and the stability of the region”.
“The Iranian side continues its escalation policies that push the region to the brink and draw into conflict countries that are not parties to this crisis”Qatari diplomacy reported.
Officials emphasized that the state “reserves the right to respond” and that “will not hesitate to take all necessary measures to protect its sovereignty, security and safety of its citizens“.
Iran's president, Masoud Pezeshkian, warned of the risk of a major escalation after the attack on the South Pars gas field. He stated that the situation “it could get out of control and engulf the entire world”, according to the BBC.
