In brief
At least 13 people were killed and 66 injured in a technical accident at the Barzan local gas supply facility in Qatar's Ras Laffan industrial zone. The explosion, which lit up the skyline in orange hues, was ruled an accident by the Energy Minister, with no evidence of sabotage or hostile action. The plant, used for the country's LNG export, had recently resumed operations after a maintenance shutdown, but the blast has forced a temporary halt. Investigators are probing the cause while authorities confirm that environmental risks were negligible and exports remain unhindered. The tragedy also comes amid broader regional tensions following Iranian attacks on Qatar during the US‑Israel conflict.
Explosion at Qatar's Largest LNG Plant
+At least thirteen workers were killed and 66 injured after an explosion at the Barzan local gas supply facility in the Ras Laffan industrial zone on Sunday night. The blast sent a shockwave that rattled windows and from windows and left large patches of orange fire across the skyline.
+Energy Minister Saad Sherida al‑Kaabi said the incident was a technical accident and not a result of sabotage or hostile action, and that no environmental risks were identified. The plant had been closed since December 2025 for urgent maintenance and only restarted two days earlier.
+Investigators are examining the cause while the Ministry asserts that national LNG exports will remain stable. However, the stop in production will temporarily reduce output, with QatarEnergy estimating a 12.8‑million‑ton cut over three to five years due to necessary repairs.
+All casualties were recorded as workers from India and Pakistan, and the Embassy of India in Doha expressed condolences, offering support to affected families. The explosion follows series of Iranian‑targeted strikes on the Ras Laffan port during the recent US‑Israel conflict, highlighting the facility's strategic importance.
+QatarEnergy confirmed the emergency response teams deployed promptly to contain the fire, which is now under control. The investigation into the accident continues as authorities coordinate with international partners to assess safety protocols and mitigate future incidents.
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