India Condemns 'Deeply Disturbing' Attacks on Gulf Energy and Civilian Infrastructure
In a strong statement, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) of India has expressed grave concern over recent attacks targeting energy and civilian infrastructure in the Gulf region, amidst the ongoing conflict in West Asia. The MEA described these incidents as "deeply disturbing" and called for an immediate cessation of such actions to prevent further destabilization.
MEA Spokesperson Highlights Unacceptable Targeting of Civilian Assets
During a media briefing on Thursday, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal reiterated India's consistent stance against the targeting of civilian and energy infrastructure in conflict zones. He emphasized that such attacks are unacceptable and only serve to exacerbate global energy uncertainties.
"Right from the very beginning, we have called for avoiding targeting of civilian infrastructure, including energy infrastructure across the region," Jaiswal stated. "Recent attacks against energy installations in different locations are therefore deeply disturbing and only serve to further destabilise an already uncertain energy scenario for the whole world. Such attacks are unacceptable and need to cease."
Impact on LNG Supplies and Global Energy Markets
Jaiswal also highlighted the significant impact of the conflict on liquefied natural gas (LNG) supplies, particularly due to disruptions in key shipping routes like the Strait of Hormuz. He noted that the latest attacks have further compromised LNG availability, affecting global energy security.
"With the latest attacks, the LNG supply is going to be impacted. It has been impacted because of the closure of the Strait of Hormuz," he explained. "But we are in discussion with several countries and in touch with all stakeholders to ensure that we can secure our energy needs and enable unimpeded transit for our cargo."
Recent Attacks on Qatar's LNG Facilities
The statement comes in the wake of recent ballistic missile attacks from Iran targeting Qatar's Ras Laffan Industrial City, the world's largest liquefaction facility. According to Qatar's Ministry of Defence, the assault caused extensive damage to the Pearl GTL (Gas-to-Liquids) facility.
QatarEnergy confirmed that several of its LNG facilities were also hit by Iranian missile attacks in the early hours of Thursday, leading to sizable fires and further extensive damage. Emergency response teams were deployed immediately, with no reported casualties, but the incidents have severely disrupted operations.
Retaliatory Strikes and Escalating Energy Prices
These attacks are seen as retaliation from Iran after Israel struck the Islamic Republic's South Pars Gas field. The tit-for-tat strikes have sent energy prices soaring, with little indication of a swift resolution to the conflict. The ongoing hostilities threaten to prolong global energy market volatility and supply chain disruptions.
India's call for peace underscores its commitment to regional stability and energy security, urging all parties to refrain from actions that could worsen the humanitarian and economic fallout in West Asia.
