United News of Bangladesh

US President Donald Trump warned that the United States could destroy Iran’s massive South Pars gas field if Iran carries out another attack on Qatar. He stated that Israel would not launch further strikes on the site, but if Iran targets Qatar again, the U.S. would respond forcefully and could “completely destroy” the gas field. Trump made these remarks on social media on Wednesday night as tensions in the region intensified, global energy markets reacted, and Iranian missiles struck Qatar. Although Trump claimed the U.S. had no prior knowledge of Israel’s strike on the South Pars field, a source indicated that Washington had been informed beforehand but did not participate. The ongoing conflict involving the U.S., Israel, and Iran is putting heavy pressure on the global energy sector. Oil prices have surged by over 5%, exceeding $108 per barrel, increasing fuel costs and straining the global economy. Concerns over Iranian retaliation have driven these price increases, especially after the attack on the gas field. Qatar later reported that a ballistic missile hit one of its major natural gas facilities, causing a large fire and extensive damage. In response, Qatar expelled some Iranian embassy staff. Iran has also targeted energy infrastructure across the Persian Gulf region since the war began on February 28, while threatening shipping routes like the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global oil passage. The conflict has caused significant casualties, with over 1,300 deaths in Iran, more than 960 in Lebanon, and at least 14 in Israel. The U.S. military has reported 13 fatalities and around 200 injured personnel. Meanwhile, attacks have continued across the region. A ship near Qatar was struck by a projectile, though its crew remained safe. Another vessel caught fire near the UAE after being hit. It remains unclear whether these ships were directly targeted or damaged by debris from missile interceptions. Iran’s South Pars gas field is vital to its energy supply, providing about 80% of the country’s electricity and supporting household needs. Strikes on this facility threaten Iran’s domestic stability. In retaliation, Iran has launched attacks on energy sites in Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE. Missile and drone attacks have also been reported across the region, including in Kuwait, Bahrain, Dubai, and Israel, heightening fears of further escalation. Qatar confirmed that additional Iranian strikes damaged more liquefied natural gas facilities, causing fires but no casualties so far. The damage could delay Qatar’s ability to resume gas exports after the conflict ends. Global leaders have expressed concern. Australia’s prime minister condemned Iran’s actions as reckless, while Gulf nations jointly called on Iran to stop attacking neighboring countries. Analysts warn that targeting gas infrastructure marks a major escalation in the conflict, with long-term economic consequences, particularly for civilians. Diplomatic tensions remain high, with Saudi Arabia strongly criticizing Iran’s actions and accusing it of undermining regional stability. The United Arab Emirates also described the attacks on its gas facilities as a dangerous escalation. In the U.S., Senate Democrats attempted to pass legislation to limit Trump’s ability to continue the war without congressional approval, but the effort failed. However, they plan to push for further debate on the issue. Overall, the conflict continues to intensify, spreading across multiple countries and posing serious risks to global energy supplies and regional stability.