Qatar Halted LNG Production After an Iranian Attack on Gas Facilities

Qatar’s state-owned energy company, QatarEnergy, said it has suspended liquefied natural gas production after an Iranian attack on its facilities.

On March 2, Iranian drones struck a gas complex in the city of Ras Laffan, as well as another facility in Mesaieed. Qatar’s Ministry of Defense said its assessment of the damage is ongoing.

Qatar remains one of the central players in the global LNG market. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, the country accounts for about 20% of global liquefied natural gas exports. QatarEnergy is among the world’s largest LNG producers.

Iran is striking Israel and U.S. bases in the Middle East in retaliation for U.S. and Israeli attacks on Iranian military, government, and nuclear sites. Civilian infrastructure in Persian Gulf states has also come under fire.