An explosion at Ras Laffan, Qatar's largest gas facility, killed at least 13 and injured 66 on Sunday night. The interior ministry classified the incident as a "technical accident." Energy Minister Saad Sherida al-Kaabi assured the public that the explosion was not linked to sabotage and would not impact gas exports.
The blast, centered at the Barzan local gas supply facility, affected central Doha, causing alarm among residents up to 43 miles away. Al-Kaabi stated an investigation is underway to ascertain the blast's cause, with victims identified as Indian and Pakistani nationals.
Emergency teams responded swiftly, containing the fire, which followed a recent resumption of operations halted since March for maintenance. As geopolitical tensions rise, Qatar continues to be a key player in global energy supply, having recently resumed LNG shipments after a brief production halt due to regional conflicts.