Iran’s Pars Gas Field Hit as War Targets Energy Infrastructure

Iran’s massive Pars gas field came under attack on Wednesday, marking the first confirmed strikes on the country’s energy infrastructure in the Gulf during the ongoing war involving the United States and Israel. This move signals a major escalation in the conflict.

The Pars field is part of the world’s largest natural gas reserve, which Iran shares with Qatar across the Gulf. Iranian media reported that gas storage tanks and parts of a refinery were damaged. Authorities evacuated workers, while emergency teams rushed to control the fire.

Iran Warns Gulf Neighbours After Strike

Following the attack, Iran issued urgent warnings to nearby countries. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps advised Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Qatar to evacuate key energy facilities, fearing further escalation.

Reports widely suggested that Israel carried out the strike with U.S. backing, although the Israeli military did not immediately comment. Meanwhile, Qatar described the incident as an Israeli operation and called it a “dangerous and irresponsible” escalation that threatens global energy security.

Major Shift as Energy Facilities Become Targets

Until now, both the United States and Israel had avoided targeting Iran’s energy sector. Analysts believe this restraint aimed to prevent wider retaliation and avoid further disruption to global markets.

However, nearly three weeks into the war, tensions have only intensified. The attack on the Pars field indicates a shift towards more aggressive targeting, raising fears of prolonged instability.

Israel Expands Strikes on Iranian Leadership

At the same time, Israel has stepped up its campaign against Iran’s leadership. It confirmed killing Iran’s intelligence minister Esmail Khatib, just a day after eliminating security chief Ali Larijani.

Defence Minister Israel Katz issued a strong warning, saying, “No one in Iran has immunity and everyone is in the crosshairs.”

He added, “The Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, and I have authorised the Israel Defense Forces to target any senior Iranian official for whom an intelligence and operational opportunity arises, without the need for additional approval.”

Iran Retaliates With Missile Attacks

Iran responded quickly to the killing of its leaders. It launched missile strikes targeting Israeli cities, including Tel Aviv, Haifa, and Beersheba. Israeli officials said at least two people were killed near Tel Aviv.

Tehran also claimed it targeted U.S. bases across the region, including in Bahrain, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE.

Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi said the country remains resilient. He stressed that the system does not depend on any single leader.

Civilian Impact Grows Across Region

The conflict is taking a heavy toll on civilians. In Tehran, large crowds gathered to mourn slain leaders, carrying flags and portraits.

In Lebanon, Israeli airstrikes hit central Beirut, destroying residential buildings. Authorities said at least 10 people were killed in one of the attacks. Many residents fled after warnings, though some strikes came without notice.

Eyewitness Abu Khalil said, "It's just an operation to hurt, to terrify people, to terrify children," adding there were no military targets nearby.

In Israel, Iranian missiles struck residential areas. One explosion in Holon caused major damage. Resident Leah Palteal said, "There was an alarm, we went into the shelter, we heard a crazy boom."

Global Energy Prices Surge Amid Crisis

The disruption to energy supply has already shaken global markets. In the United States, diesel prices have crossed $5 per gallon for the first time since the 2022 inflation spike.

The Strait of Hormuz, a crucial route for global oil transport, remains under threat. Any further escalation could worsen supply shortages worldwide.

Rising Death Toll and Humanitarian Crisis

The war continues to cause widespread casualties. A US-based rights group estimated that more than 3,000 people have been killed in Iran since the conflict began on February 28.

In Lebanon, officials reported around 900 deaths and said 800,000 people have been displaced. Iranian strikes have also caused deaths in Iraq and other Gulf countries. In Israel, at least 14 people have been killed so far.