Iran has dramatically escalated the Middle East conflict by launching direct missile strikes on key energy facilities in Saudi Arabia and Qatar, following Israel’s attack on the South Pars gas field. Explosions and massive fires were reported in Riyadh’s industrial zone, with refineries hit and infrastructure damaged. Qatar’s Ras Laffan Industrial City — home to the world’s largest LNG facility — also came under attack, with “extensive damage” and fires confirmed. The Gulf region has been thrust into high alert, as air defenses intercept incoming drones and missiles. Saudi Arabia has issued a stern warning, vowing it will not succumb to pressure and reserving the right to respond militarily. Qatar has condemned the strikes as a direct threat to regional stability and expelled Iranian diplomats.
