Qatar warns Iran war could halt Gulf energy exports ‘within weeks’

Qatar's Energy Minister Saad al-Kaabi has warned that a prolonged war with Iran could halt Gulf energy exports within weeks, affecting global economies. The warning comes as Qatar halted liquefied natural gas (LNG) production in response to Iranian missile and drone attacks on the country and its neighbors. LNG production from Qatar accounts for about 20% of global supply and plays a key role in balancing Asian and European markets' demand. Al-Kaabi stated that if the war continues, GDP growth worldwide will be impacted, leading to higher energy prices, shortages, and chain reactions among factories. He also expects all Gulf exporters to call force majeure, freeing them from liability or obligations due to extraordinary events. The minister estimated it would take Qatar weeks to months to return to normal deliveries even if the war ended immediately.

A disruption to Qatar's LNG output, reportedly due to Iranian drone strikes and a blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, has triggered a surge in Asian gas prices to a three-year high. Qatar, a major LNG exporter, halted production at its Ras Laffan plant on Monday, prompting Asian buyers to seek replacement cargoes and some industries to reduce consumption. The incident highlights Asia's vulnerability due to its heavy reliance on imported fossil fuels, particularly from the Middle East. Analysts suggest this disruption underscores the need for the region to accelerate its transition to renewable energy sources. The rising spot LNG prices in Asia reached approximately US$23.80 per million British thermal units on Friday.

Intense Israeli strikes targeted Iran and Lebanon as the US warned of a dramatic surge in bombardment in the Middle East on Thursday, March 5, 2026. The US has been striking Iran for six consecutive days, escalating the conflict. Fighting between Israel and Hezbollah intensified, with Israeli tanks moving to the Lebanese border. Azerbaijan accused Iran of a drone attack and threatened retaliation, signaling a potential expansion of the war. Governments worldwide are scrambling to evacuate citizens stranded across the region as the conflict disrupts travel, including at Dubai International Airport. The escalating conflict raises concerns about regional stability and potential internal destabilization within Iran.

On March 5, 2026, Iranian media reported that missiles fired by the United States and Israel struck two schools in Parand, a town southwest of Tehran. The attack, which damaged classrooms and nearby residential units, occurred six days after a prior strike on a girls' school in Minab that killed 165 people. Iranian authorities attributed the Minab attack to the US and Israel, who launched a war on Iran, with the US claiming unawareness of hitting a school and Israeli sources alleging the site's proximity to a military base. An Al Jazeera investigation disputed these claims, showing the school was separate from the adjacent military site. The attacks have ignited exchanges of fire across the Middle East.

The ongoing Iran war has caused widespread damage and casualties across the Middle East and beyond. Missile strikes, drone attacks, and shrapnel have impacted numerous countries, leading to embassy closures and economic disruptions. A US submarine reportedly sank an Iranian warship off the coast of Sri Lanka. Many governments are urging their citizens to evacuate Middle Eastern countries as airspaces close and travel routes become impassable. Within Iran, at least 1,045 people have died, with a major incident involving a strike on a school in Minab. US-Israeli strikes have targeted Iranian nuclear infrastructure, government buildings, and leadership compounds, resulting in the death of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei.

As of March 5, 2026, a war in Iran has sparked a global oil and gas crisis, potentially benefiting the United States and other Western exporters. The crisis stems from disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, a vital shipping route for oil and LNG, and attacks on energy infrastructure in Gulf countries. Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) declared the Strait "closed" after several tankers were damaged, causing oil and gas prices to surge. Approximately 150 ships are stranded, and about 10% of the world's container ships are caught in backups, potentially leading to cargo pile-ups in Europe and Asia. Qatar's energy infrastructure has also been attacked, further exacerbating the crisis.

A war with Iran has disrupted global energy trade, particularly impacting Asia due to its reliance on imported oil and natural gas shipped through the Strait of Hormuz. The Strait is a critical passageway for a fifth of global crude oil and liquified natural gas (LNG) trade. In 2025, 13 million barrels of oil per day moved through the corridor. Since the war began, the price of Brent crude has risen 15% to $84 per barrel. The U.S. President has stated the U.S. will offer risk insurance to shippers and may deploy its navy to protect vessels.

A UK government rescue flight scheduled to depart from Muscat, Oman on Wednesday to repatriate stranded British nationals was delayed due to operational issues related to boarding passengers. The chartered plane is now expected to leave on Thursday. This comes as 138,000 UK citizens have registered for assistance, with a majority located in the UAE, following escalating conflict in the Middle East, including missile strikes in Dubai. Approximately 1,000 Britons have already returned home on commercial flights. Two additional chartered flights are planned for this week. Many UK citizens were caught in the region during layovers or vacations as the conflict intensified, impacting travel and daily life.

Spain's Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares expressed "surprise" to Germany regarding comments made by Friedrich Merz after Merz met with Donald Trump at the White House. The comments appeared to support Trump's threats to cut trade with Spain. Albares conveyed that Spain expected solidarity from Germany, given their shared currency, trade policy, and market. He contrasted Merz's stance with that of previous German chancellors, Angela Merkel and Olaf Scholz, suggesting a shift away from a pro-European spirit. The remarks follow Trump's threats to cut off trade with Spain.

Spanish Foreign Minister José Albares criticized German Chancellor Friedrich Merz for a perceived lack of solidarity after Donald Trump attacked Spain during a White House meeting on Tuesday. Albares expressed "surprise" at Merz's silence when Trump criticized the Spanish government's handling of the Middle East conflict and its refusal to allow the use of Spanish bases. Trump also threatened to halt "all deals" with Madrid and criticized Spain's defense spending. Albares contrasted Merz's response with the solidarity Spain has shown other European nations in the past, highlighting the expectation of mutual support within the EU's shared economic framework. The specific deals Trump referenced remain unclear.

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez responded to Donald Trump's threat to end trade with Spain by reaffirming his opposition to war and defending international law. Trump's threat came after Spain refused to allow the US to use jointly-run military bases for potential strikes on Iran. Trump also criticized Spain's defense spending and its stance on Venezuela. Sánchez stated that Spain's position is comparable to its stance on Ukraine and Gaza, emphasizing a commitment to peace and international legality. Sánchez also mentioned the government was studying economic measures to counter the impact of the conflict on Spaniards.

In March 2026, the United States and Israel launched attacks on Iran and Lebanon, while Iran conducted counterstrikes that disrupted Middle Eastern oil flows. The US embassy in Dubai was hit, and Israel struck Tehran and Beirut. US forces joined Israel's attacks based on President Trump's belief that Iran was preparing to strike first. Targets in Iran included the Assembly of Experts building in Qom. As of March 4th, the conflict had resulted in at least 787 deaths since the previous Saturday. The reasons provided for the attacks differed between President Trump and Secretary of State Rubio.

On March 3-4, 2026, the US and Israel escalated airstrikes against Iranian missile launchers and factories, marking the fifth day of war. Israel targeted Iran's presidential office, facilities linked to the Supreme Leader, and a Hezbollah media building in Lebanon. Iran retaliated with missile attacks against Israel and across the Gulf region, disrupting energy supplies and travel. An Iranian drone struck a parking lot outside the U.S. consulate in Dubai, causing a small fire. A U.S. service member, Sgt. Declan Coady, was killed in a strike in Kuwait.

On March 4, 2026, the US and Israel entered the fifth day of strikes against Iran, targeting government, military, civilian, and nuclear-related facilities in Tehran, including the Natanz nuclear facility. Iran has retaliated by launching hundreds of missiles and drones, hitting targets such as the US embassy in Saudi Arabia and near the US consulate in Dubai, escalating tensions in the Gulf. The conflict has spread to Lebanon, where Israel is conducting intense bombardments. As of Wednesday, reports indicate nearly 800 deaths in Iran and 50 in Lebanon. The ongoing conflict has sparked political debate in the US, with questions raised about the initial decision to attack Iran.

Attacks on energy facilities in Qatar and Saudi Arabia, coupled with an Iranian blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, are causing a surge in global oil and gas prices. According to a March 4, 2026, Al Jazeera report, these disruptions are predicted to increase energy costs worldwide. The rising prices are expected to impact gasoline, electricity, and heating expenses for consumers. The events in the Middle East are the primary driver behind the anticipated global energy market instability. Analyst Marah Rayan examined the potential consequences of these events.

As of March 3, 2026, the Middle East is experiencing escalating violence following coordinated US and Israeli attacks on Iran. Key government and symbolic sites in Tehran have been damaged, resulting in over 600 deaths, including Supreme Leader Khamenei. The US has warned of further strikes intended to cripple Iran's military capabilities and halt its nuclear ambitions. In response, Iran has closed the Strait of Hormuz, threatening any vessels attempting passage, and has launched attacks on US and allied targets across the region, including energy facilities. The closure of the Strait of Hormuz is expected to have significant global economic consequences.

The Middle East is experiencing escalating conflict, with a joint US-Israeli aerial assault on Iran followed by the assassination of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and other Iranian leaders. The US preemptive strike was reportedly triggered by concerns over potential Iranian attacks on US troops. This conflict has stranded over 100,000 Britons in the Gulf due to airspace closures and risky overland evacuation routes. In UK news, Scotland has legalized hydrolysis as an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional burials. Meanwhile, UK programs supporting nature and climate protection in developing countries are facing budget cuts. In UK politics, Nigel Farage is facing accusations of election denial following a recent byelection.

Experts are warning that Australian energy bills could significantly increase due to escalating conflict in Iran. The situation is drawing comparisons to 2022, when electricity prices surged over 40% following the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Concerns stem from US-Israel strikes on Iran and reports that Qatar, a major liquefied natural gas exporter, halted production after an Iranian drone attack on its Ras Laffan complex. This disruption in gas supply could lead to higher energy costs for Australian consumers and businesses, potentially requiring government intervention through subsidies, similar to the response in 2022. The potential price surge is attributed to the interconnectedness of global gas markets and the impact of geopolitical instability on supply chains.

Following drone attacks on U.S. embassies in Saudi Arabia and Kuwait, the U.S. State Department has closed its embassies in those two countries. The State Department also issued an urgent advisory, recommending that American citizens immediately depart from 14 unspecified countries. These actions come as tensions escalate in the region, with Iran reportedly increasing retaliatory measures. Simultaneously, the Israeli military announced it has seized additional territory in Lebanon amidst ongoing conflict with Hezbollah, which is backed by Iran. The closures and travel advisory highlight growing concerns about the safety of American personnel and citizens in the Middle East.

In March 2026, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio defended joint US-Israeli strikes on Iran. Rubio stated that the strikes were necessary because Iran was not negotiating in good faith with the US. He claimed that President Trump authorized the strikes due to Iran "playing" the US during negotiations. The strikes were intended to prevent Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons, with Rubio asserting that a world without a nuclear-armed Iran would be safer. The location of the strikes within Iran was not specified in the report.

During a news conference, President Trump addressed the US-Israeli military campaign against Iran, following the assassination of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. While confident in the military advantage, Trump expressed concern that regime change could result in a leader "as bad as the previous person." He stated the US would like to see a leader who would "bring it back for the people." Trump also cautioned Iranians against protesting, citing the danger posed by the state security apparatus. He claimed Iran was planning to attack first, potentially prompting Israel's involvement. Furthermore, Trump threatened to cut off trade with Spain due to their refusal to allow US strikes on Iran from jointly operated bases.

Following the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and other Iranian officials, Iran has launched attacks on US assets in the Gulf. As of March 2, 2026, these attacks have resulted in one death in Bahrain, with Iraq and Kuwait also reporting Iranian raids. The United States has stated that attacks on Iran will continue until all objectives are met. The escalating conflict also involves Hezbollah, which has fired rockets. The situation marks a significant escalation of tensions in the region.

The US and Israel launched a military strike on Iran, killing hundreds of people, including Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, on February 27. In response, Iran attacked several countries, including Kuwait, Bahrain, Jordan, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates. Senior diplomats from China and India met in New Delhi in February for strategic dialogue, aiming to view each other as partners rather than competitors. However, a persistent gap in their relationship was revealed in the readouts of the meeting. Canada's former deputy prime minister emphasized the need for countries to maintain constructive engagement with China while reducing economic dependency on the country. The global relations landscape is marked by tensions and shifting dynamics between major powers.

Iran and allied militias, including Hezbollah, launched attacks on Israel and US targets in the Gulf in response to Ayatollah Khamenei's death. The retaliation was carried out across multiple fronts, with Israel striking back at targets in Lebanon. President Trump stated that the US assault on Iran would last four or five weeks. The conflict has widened across the region, with both sides engaging in military operations. The attacks are believed to be a response to Khamenei's death, which marked a significant shift in leadership for Iran. The situation remains fluid and volatile, with ongoing tensions between Iran and its adversaries.

In March 2026, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that a planned Israeli attack on Iran influenced the timing of the US military's assault on Tehran. Rubio explained that the US was aware of Israel's impending action and anticipated Iranian retaliation against US interests. To preemptively mitigate potential casualties, the US launched its own strikes. This revelation came as the US military confirmed six service members had died in the conflict following Iranian retaliation, which included drone and missile attacks on US bases. Rubio defended the US-Israeli joint action, arguing it was necessary to thwart an imminent threat, as Iran would have retaliated against the US following the Israeli strike.

A video verified by the BBC appears to show an F-15 fighter jet crashing to the ground near Kuwait City. The footage was filmed from the west of the city, on the edge of the Al Jahra area. US Central Command later confirmed that three US F-15 jets went down due to "an apparent friendly fire incident". All six crew members ejected safely and are in stable condition. The incident occurred in an unspecified location near Kuwait City, with no further details provided.

Following joint US-Israeli strikes on Iran that killed Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in March 2026, Iran retaliated by targeting Israel and US-linked military sites in the region, including in Gulf states hosting US forces. The exchange raises concerns about escalating conflict and Iran's capacity to strike back. Central to Iran's strategy is its large and diverse missile arsenal, including ballistic and cruise missiles, providing long-range capabilities. Iranian officials consider the missile program a key deterrent, especially given its aging air force. Western governments, however, view Iran's missile capabilities as destabilizing and potentially linked to nuclear ambitions, claims Iran denies.

On March 2, 2026, QatarEnergy halted liquefied natural gas (LNG) production following drone attacks on its facilities in Ras Laffan Industrial City and Mesaieed Industrial City, Qatar. The Qatari Defence Ministry attributed the attacks to Iran, stating that two drones targeted a water tank and an energy facility. Simultaneously, Saudi Arabia temporarily shut down units at the Ras Tanura oil refinery after a drone attack caused a fire. The Saudi Ministry of Defence reported that two drones attempted to attack the refinery, resulting in limited damage and no casualties. As a result of the production halt in Qatar, natural gas prices in Europe soared by almost 50 percent.

Oil prices surged on Monday after the United States and Israel launched attacks on Iran, prompting retaliatory strikes against US and Israeli military installations in the Middle East. Brent crude rose by 9 percent to $79.41 a barrel, while West Texas Intermediate increased by 8.6 percent to $72.79 a barrel. The conflict has disrupted the global energy supply chain, particularly impacting traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway for oil tankers. Tankers are accumulating on either side of the strait due to concerns about attacks and insurance. Experts predict a significant price increase if the Strait of Hormuz remains effectively blocked, preventing 15 million barrels of crude oil from reaching markets daily.

Oil prices surged after the reported death of Iranian leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in US-Israeli air strikes, escalating conflict between the US, Israel, and Iran. The Strait of Hormuz, a critical oil transit route, experienced near standstill, impacting tanker traffic. This disruption raised concerns about supply shortages and increased import costs, particularly for Asian economies like China, India, Japan, and South Korea, which heavily rely on oil imports. Benchmark Brent crude jumped significantly, reflecting market fears of sustained supply disruption. Iran retaliated with attacks on US military bases in Bahrain, Kuwait, and Qatar, further escalating geopolitical tensions in the region.

Thousands of mourners gathered in Tehran on Sunday following the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who was killed in a US-Israeli attack. The attack, which began on Saturday, aimed to overthrow the Iranian government. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) vowed a severe retaliation against the US and Israel, threatening a major operation targeting both countries and their regional bases. Further explosions were reported in Doha, Dubai, and Manama, and sirens sounded in Israel as the Israeli military responded to Iranian missile fire. President Trump warned of unprecedented force against Iran if it retaliates. Khamenei had been Iran's supreme leader since 1989.

Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran's Supreme Leader, died at age 86 following a US-Israeli strike on his compound in Tehran. The strike, confirmed by satellite imagery showing heavy damage, occurred on Saturday and was announced by US President Donald Trump. Khamenei's daughter, son-in-law, and granddaughter were also reportedly killed in the attack. Iran has declared 40 days of mourning. Khamenei, who ruled for 36 years after succeeding Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini in 1989, was a polarizing figure, both revered and feared for his role in maintaining the Islamic Republic and building Iran into a powerful anti-US force. Reports indicate that some Iranians grieved while others celebrated his death.

Following a joint U.S.-Israeli military action, Iran launched attacks against Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Qatar, and Bahrain. The attacks targeted these Gulf states in response to the prior U.S.-Israeli operation. The specific nature and extent of the attacks were not detailed in the provided information. The attacks threaten the image of security and openness that these states have cultivated. The timing and motivations behind the initial U.S.-Israeli action remain unspecified.

Following strikes against Iran and rumors of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's death, Iranian expatriates in London and Manchester celebrated on Saturday. The celebrations, particularly concentrated in London's "Little Tehran," involved waving pre-revolutionary Iranian flags. However, the mood shifted to a more muted tone as news emerged of hundreds of Iranian deaths, including children, resulting from the strikes. While some members of the Iranian diaspora expressed happiness and support for the events, others acknowledged the uncertain future of Iran and the potential for devastating turmoil. Academics noted the expected yet devastating nature of the strikes, highlighting concerns about the consequences for the country.

Following the assassination of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in a US-Israeli attack in March 2026, Iran faces the critical task of selecting a new Supreme Leader. The Assembly of Experts, an 88-member clerical body, will convene to choose Khamenei's successor, a process they have undertaken only once before. The selection occurs amidst heightened tensions, with Iran retaliating against Gulf countries and the US threatening further strikes. The attacks, which also killed several senior Iranian leaders, occurred despite recent diplomatic efforts regarding Iran's nuclear program. The new Supreme Leader will assume power at a time when the US has pledged to dismantle Iran's ruling structure.

According to US President Donald Trump, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran's Supreme Leader, has died following US and Israeli airstrikes. Iran has not confirmed the death of the 86-year-old, who has held the powerful position for three decades since the 1979 Islamic Revolution. As Supreme Leader, Khamenei was head of state, commander-in-chief, and held significant influence over public policy and elections. Born in 1939, Khamenei rose to prominence as a critic of the Shah, facing imprisonment and exile before becoming a key figure in the post-revolution leadership. His weekly sermons broadcast nationwide solidified his position. His death, if confirmed, could lead to an uncertain future for Iran and the region.

Following escalating attacks in the Middle East, 131 Hong Kong residents found themselves stranded due to flight cancellations. The Hong Kong Immigration Department confirmed that all those who inquired were safe as of Sunday morning. Authorities are coordinating with Chinese embassies in Qatar, UAE, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and Jordan to monitor the situation and provide assistance. The Immigration Department is maintaining contact with the affected residents, offering advice and support regarding their travel plans. Solicitor Martin Yeung Wan-fung, stranded in Dubai, described hearing explosions and seeing flashes, highlighting the unsettling experience for those caught in the disruption. The situation arose from a joint US-Israeli attack on Iran, impacting air travel and leaving individuals seeking shelter.